Julia G. Derrick, age 61 (or possibly age 34), passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 23 ^rd at Holmes Regional Medical Center.

Julia is survived by her mother, Barbara Derrick; brother, Charles (Marlene) Derrick; nieces Amanda (Adam) Dettweiler and Laurel (Alex) McNeill; and a multitude of friends, students, and colleagues. She is preceded in death by her beloved father Cap O. Derrick, with whom she is now eternally reunited.

From her early days in West Virginia and Northeast Ohio, to her later years in Florida, Julia inspired those fortunate enough to know her through her love of teaching and passion for service. She touched innumerable lives throughout her 30+ year tenure as a professor at Eastern Florida State College. She was particularly proud of her service work in the community and sat on a number of boards throughout the years. She was active in local politics and served as a champion of ideals that were close to her heart. She also served as a eucharistic minister at the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Melbourne.

Julia lived an adventure of a life, traveling throughout the world and fully experiencing the sights, even if it meant "climbing" down the vertigo inducing Tower of Pisa steps on her behind. She was also a voracious reader and led summer reading clubs and book exchanges with friends and family that often resulted in lengthy, philosophical discussion. She will be deeply missed and will be remembered for the strength, warmth and love she embodied.

Family, friends, and others whose lives Julia touched are invited to celebrate Julia's life Friday September 28th 11-12 PM (family greeting) followed by funeral service at 12 noon at  Holy Trinity Episcopal Church at 50 W. Strawbridge Ave., Melbourne.