Julie Ann Squires

Ava, Missouri

Julie Ann Squires, 44 years, 1 month, and 8 days old, passed away unexpectedly on May 30, 2026, at her home. Though her passing brings profound sorrow, her life will be held close with abiding love, quiet gratitude, and a treasury of bittersweet memories that those who knew her will carry gently in their hearts.

Julie was born on April 22, 1982, in Jacksonville, North Carolina, to Mark David and Nancy Susan (Colson) Dietz.

She was raised in Ava and graduated from Ava High School in 2002. She continued her education at Drury University out of Springfield, MO, carrying with her a gentle brightness, a hopeful heart, and a determined drive that would remain with her throughout her life. Julie worked in several customer service and hospitality positions, but above all else, the role she cherished most was being MOM-a calling she embraced with deep devotion, tenderness, and unwavering love.

Julie was spontaneous and full of life, always ready for a new adventure and eager to gather memories like precious keepsakes along the way. Her greatest joys were found in the time she shared with her daughters, moments she treasured deeply. She also loved visiting, chatting, and basking in the laughter, giggles, and unconditional love of her many nieces and nephews.

Julie and her oldest daughter were best friends, and her youngest daughter was the sparkling light of her eye. The love she gave so freely drew family and friends close and left an imprint that will not fade. Her contagious smile and joyful laughter could brighten even the heaviest day, and there was a warmth about her presence that made others feel at home. Her mother, brothers, daughters, nieces, and nephews were her world. She enjoyed gardening, watching crime documentaries, and spending time with her cats.

Julie was baptized in the Lutheran Church at a young age and believed in Christianity. Her heart and focus were always on her family. She was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, and aunt whose life was marked by love, laughter, and a gentle light that will remain in the hearts of those who loved her. She will be deeply missed, tenderly remembered, and forever loved.

Julie was preceded in death by her grandparents, Forest and Neta Colson, and her niece, Faith McKinzie Dietz.

She is survived by her mother, Nancy Brood; her daughters, Arielle Bertaud and Kya Squires; her son-in- law, Ben Manzolillo; two brothers and their spouses, Joshua and Chasity Dietz and Patrick and Kristen Dietz; numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Memorial services for Julie will be Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Homes, Inc., Ava, MO, with a visitation prior to the service at 1:30 p.m. Officiating will be Pastor John Williams.