Julia Higley Brown, 86, of Scottsdale, Arizona, passed away on April 1, 2024. She was born on December 31, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Parker and Cornelia Higley. Julia was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Tom Higley, and her son Jonathan Brown.

Julia will be deeply missed by her loving family. She is survived by her son Jeffrey Brown and his wife Lisa, daughter Laura St. John and her husband Joel, and grandchildren Ryan St. John, Cole St. John, Nick St. John, Jordan Brown, and Nicole Brown.

Julia attended Dubuque Senior High School, Emma Willard School, and Northwestern University. She was a member of the Alpha Phi sorority. After college, she moved to San Francisco, CA, and then back to Dubuque, IA, to marry and begin a family welcoming three children. Julia enjoyed volunteering and serving her community through various organizations in Dubuque, including Sunshine Circle, Westminster Presbyterian Church, and P.E.O. As her children were nearing and entering college, she moved back to San Francisco, where she found comfort in volunteering with Meals on Wheels and the University of San Francisco Medical Center Outreach Programs. She eventually settled in Scottsdale, AZ, to spend time with her son, Jeff, and daughter, Laura, and their families. She enjoyed watching her five grandchildren grow into amazing young adults.

Julia highly valued education and provided generously to many individuals to help them pursue their dreams.  She also supported education-related organizations that were important to her. For this, we are all very grateful.

Services will include a private family visitation and burial to honor Julia’s life. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice of the Valley in Scottsdale, Hillcrest Family Services in Dubuque, or a charity of your choice in her memory.

Rest in peace, Julia. Your memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved you. A special thank you to Arizona Royal Care Home and Hospice of the Valley for their comforting care and kindness.