Julie Suzanne Walton McCormick, born on May 2, 1964, to her late parents, Joseph Lanier Walton and Mary Duanne Self Walton, was the beloved eldest child and part of a proud lineage that has called Northwest Georgia home for six successive generations.
Julie passed away on November 11, 2024, leaving a legacy of devotion, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to her community. Julie graduated from Coosa High School in 1982, later attending Berry College, following in her parents' footsteps.
She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1986 before continuing her studies at Georgia Southern University, where she obtained a Master of Science in biology in 1990.
Julie spent her summers immersed in scientific research, dissecting hagfish at the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory in Maine. Her passion for science led her to teach biology at East Rome High School, Rome High School, and Armuchee High School, where she taught with enthusiasm and care, making an enduring impact on her students.
Later, she taught middle school science at Saint Mary’s Catholic School, instilling a love for Earth Science, biology, and physical science in her students. Known for her warmth and dedication, Julie was a beloved teacher who influenced countless lives and remained an enduring presence in her students' lives.
In her personal life, Julie married Dr. Gerald (Jerry) Lane McCormick on July 17, 1993. Together, they built a strong, loving marriage of over 31 years, grounded in faith, love, and mutual support.
Julie took time from her teaching career to raise their children before returning to the classroom, continuing to touch the lives of young people for another 15 years.
Julie’s faith was central to her life. A dedicated member of Rome First Baptist Church since her baptism at age 11, she served as a Sunday school teacher for youth and preschool classes, a life deacon, and even chair of the deacons from 2016-2017.
Her commitment extended to countless church committees, including missions, stewardship, and pastor search. Her work took her on mission trips to places such as Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Peru, where she led by example, teaching young people the values of service and compassion.
Julie was also an active community leader who helped establish and sustain important organizations like the Koinonia soup kitchen, the Davies' Homeless Shelters, and Bridges out of Poverty.
She dedicated herself to fostering justice, equity, and unity in her cherished Rome community, striving to uplift those who are often marginalized and advocating for peace and compassion.
Julie is survived by her husband, Dr. Jerry McCormick, her children Dr. Winston Lane McCormick, Mary Jo McCormick, Angela Sue McCormick Culberson, Benjamin Jay McCormick, Andrew Warwick McCormick, and Megan Ann McCormick, along with her children-in-law, Stephen Culberson and Virginia Jones McCormick.
She also leaves behind her grandchildren, Corrina Anne McCormick and Connor Lane McCormick, her brother, Joseph (Josh) Lanier Walton, Jr., and many beloved extended family members.
In honor of her memory, the family requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church of Rome Foundation or to Saint Mary’s Catholic School.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, at 1:00 pm at First Baptist Church, Rome, GA, with Pastor David Brooks officiating. Friends are invited to join the family in remembrance and support following the service.
Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, North Chapel, is honored to serve the family of Julie Suzanne Walton McCormick. Her legacy of love, faith, and service will forever resonate with those whose lives she touched.
