Obituaries

Julia Ann “Jules” DeGrave ( Bugey), 53, of Earleville, Maryland, passed away on March 30, 2025, surrounded by her children after a courageous battle with Stage 4 sarcoma colon and liver cancer.

Born on August 18, 1971, in Chester County, Pennsylvania, Julia brought light and laughter into the lives of those around her from the very beginning. Known for her strength, honesty, and fierce love for her family, she lived life with passion and purpose.

Julia was a devoted mother to her daughters Julia Bugey (Elliot) and Trish DeGrave (Shaun), and to her sons Kyle Adams(Kaitlin), Georgie DeGrave (Aliyha), and Bobby DeGrave (Apryl). Her love extended deeply to her grandchildren Steven, Owen, Sylas, Leilani, Sullivan, Scarlett and two on the way—who brought immense joy to her life. She also cherished her fur baby Mac, who remained faithfully by her side.

She is remembered lovingly by her sisters Debbie Swayngim (George) and Mary Ann Demeglio, as well as many nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Julia was preceded in death by her beloved husband John Laurence, her mother Genevieve Bugey, grandson Colson DeGrave, brother Richard Bugey, and fur daughter Willow.

Julia’s personality was unforgettable—tough yet tender-hearted. She never sugarcoated the truth but always spoke from a place of deep love. Her sharp sense of humor could light up any room, and she had an uncanny ability to make people feel seen and valued. Her children were the center of her world; she loved them fiercely and wasn’t afraid to show tough love when needed. That same devotion extended to her grandchildren and friends alike.

A familiar face at Crystal Beach where she worked the gate with pride, Julia was known for greeting everyone with warmth and wit. She found joy in vacationing with loved ones, dancing with friends to the music she adored—especially Meghan Trainor—and watching her favorite shows like General Hospital or tuning into the Food Network. Whether it was country tunes or old-school R&B classics playing in the background, Julia knew how to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

She loved getting dressed up for outings—never without making sure her hair was just right—and treasured moments spent fishing with “the boys” or gathering at family cookouts with cousin’s Kathy Laird (family) and Friends Rhonda and Cindy. These were the times that filled Julia’s heart: laughter shared over meals, stories told under open skies, memories made with those she held closest.

Throughout her illness, Julia showed remarkable resilience. Even as cancer took its toll physically, it never dimmed her spirit or lessened the love she gave so freely. Her final days were spent surrounded by those who meant everything to her a testament to a life lived fully and fiercely.

Julia Ann “Jules” DeGrave leaves behind a legacy of strength, humor, loyalty, and boundless love. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.