Julia Kearbey

Julia K Kearbey, age 67, passed away on Tuesday, January 13, at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, following complications due to pneumonia. Julia was born on May 2, 1958, near Indianapolis, Indiana. She graduated from St. Charles High School and later earned a nursing degree, beginning a lifelong career devoted to caring for others. As a child, Julia was often described as a tomboy. She loved reading, spending time outdoors, fishing with her dad, and catching crawdads—simple joys that reflected her independent spirit and love of nature. Julia had a lifelong passion for music, especially classic rock ’n’ roll, and greatly enjoyed traveling, animals, dining out, and attending concerts—particularly those by her favorite band, REO Speedwagon. Music brought her comfort, joy, and connection throughout her life. Throughout her career, Julia worked as a nurse in emergency rooms, nursing homes, hospice care, assisted living facilities, and as a traveling nurse. She was known for her strong work ethic, compassion, and dedication to her patients. Nursing was more than a profession to Julia—it was her calling. She often said she would practice nursing until the day she died, believing that rest and leisure were reserved for retirement. Family, friends, coworkers, and her patients were at the core of her values, and she was widely known for being open-minded, accepting, and deeply caring. At the age of 19, Julia gave birth to her first son, Bradley. Several years later, she married Michael Gross, with whom she had two children, Michael and Angela. After their divorce, Julia met Stan Schmidler, and together they had one child, Anthony. Julia later married Tobie Kearbey, with whom she had one child, Taylor. Shortly after their marriage, Tobie adopted Anthony. Although Julia and Tobie were estranged later in life, they remained married at the time of her passing. Julia was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Linda Marie Shipp. She is survived by her father, Gerald Shipp; her husband, Tobie Kearbey; her brother, Roger Shipp; her sister, Charlene Miller; and her five children: Bradley, Michael, Angela, Anthony, and Taylor. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 17, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at A Life Celebration by Franklin, located at 16912 North Interstate 35, Austin, Texas 78728. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bok Man Kim Legacy Foundation. https://givebutter.com/xxejNQ Julia K Kearbey will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. Her memory will forever live in our hearts. 💞💖💕💝

Julia Kearbey

May 2, 1958 - January 13, 2026

Explore Obituaries &
Upcoming Services