July 28, 1941 — March 20, 2024
Julia Ruth (Ellsworth) Widner entered her eternal rest on March 20th, 2024. Julia was born in Pacific Grove, CA, on July 28th, 1941, to Walter and Addie (Carpenter) Ellsworth. When she was a baby, her parents moved to Indian Valley, CA, where her father built the family homestead. Julia attended the Goodyears Bar Schoolhouse and later the Downieville Junior-Senior High School, where she graduated. She then attended Armstrong Business College in Berkley, CA, earning her secretarial degree, which she utilized throughout her career.
In 1961, Julia married James Widner. Shortly after their marriage, they moved to Boulder City, NV, later settling in nearby Las Vegas, NV, where they raised their three children, Kim, David, and Mark. Julia was a devoted mother who was very involved in her children's lives. She was a Girl Scout leader, Cub Scout den mother, and a volunteer in many positions for her community and church.
In the 1990s, Julia finally returned to her beloved Sierra Mountains and the beautiful Yuba River, of which she had such fond memories.
Julia was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Addie Ellsworth, her brothers Russell and Jerry Ellsworth, and her dear sister, Damaris (Ellsworth) Harbert, whom she was blessed to live with in their final years.
Julia leaves behind her three beloved children, Kim (Widner) Albanese, David Paul Widner, and Mark Widner; his wife, Sonia Widner; five beautiful grandchildren, Angela Miller, Ethan Heston, Antos Widner, Zosia Widner, and Maansi Widner; and two dear great-grandchildren, Athena Miller and Elijah Elwell.
Julia was admitted to Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital in Grass Valley, CA, on March 15th, 2024. She spent her last days surrounded by family and loved ones. Julia passed peacefully, retaining her grace, dignity, and sense of humor until taking her last breath. Julia was not afraid of death, as she said her heart and soul yearned to be with Jesus. She expressed how happy she was to finally be going home.
Julia requested her favorite Bible verses be included in her obituary, saying John 3:16-17 sustained her throughout her life with hope and joy.
John 3:16-17
16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.
Julia will be dearly missed, but the faith she shared with her loved ones, and cherished memories of her, will remain in our hearts forever.