Julaine Marie (Brophy) Brent was born on September 11, 1951 in East Lansing, Michigan to Norine (Guillet) and Patrick Brophy. Throughout her 72 years, she cultivated her identity as an individual and in relationship to others, with a constant thread of kindness, compassion, beauty and whole-heartedness.
A daughter and sister. The first of three beautiful children, Julaine was a devoted daughter who adored both of her parents. She spoke often about how her mother inspired her and the warmth of her father’s hugs. As a child, Julaine loved riding her horse Glory, a love inspired and shared by her dad, and volunteering alongside her mother, who was passionate about community. As the daughter of a young married couple, she lived with the love and excitement of being the first born, learning to adapt to new homes and places that come with growing careers. As the oldest sister, she was a role model of love, responsibility, intellect, friendship and mischief. She protected and cared for her siblings who needed help with these changes. She was a light who shone the way. As a young woman she showed how to be a good friend and a leader in her community. As she and her siblings grew, her role remained as protector, but transformed into friend, with conversation shifting from rehearsal of grammar school lessons to philosophy of life, and responsibility changing from mischief management to conspiring as a partner in crime. As the years unfolded, Julaine became a sister to Carol, Clay, Bill, Melanie, Susan, Michael, Paul and Eva, bringing each into her fold, connected and loved.
A curious learner. As a result of Patrick’s various jobs with General Motors, Julaine’s family moved from Michigan, to Ohio, to Connecticut, to Virginia, and back to Michigan. Julaine found a love of learning early, a love inspired and shared by Norine who was a teacher, and it was a source of constancy as she attended many different schools throughout her childhood. She was a proud St Mary’s College at Notre Dame graduate (the Fighting Irish!), where she earned a B.A. in Humanistic Studies in 1972. She returned to university as a mature student to pursue her passion for psychology, earning a B.A. in Psychology from Glendon College, York University, in 1994, followed by a Master’s Degree in Developmental Psychology in 2002 from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE), University of Toronto. Julaine’s passion for young children’s well-being inspired her to continue at OISE, where she carried out doctoral studies, her research focusing on parent-child and teacher-child relationships among young children as they made the transition into school, earning her a Ph.D. in 2010. Her thirst for learning extended to all areas of life, exploring her Self and her potential, from fire walks with Tony Robbins to transformational growth and empowerment at the Hoffman Institute.
A wife, mother and nana. Julaine was introduced to Peter through the Tillmann family in 1972 and both found love quickly. Julaine married Peter in Gross Pointe, Michigan on March 1, 1974, a marriage that would last nearly 50 years! Julaine and Peter were quick to start a family with the bright John, followed by the beautiful Jennifer, and then the wonderful Paula. Julaine’s family grew with John’s marriage to Robin and her two amazing grandsons in Liam and Owen. More recently the family grew again with Jennifer’s marriage to Josh and three darling step-grandchildren in Poppy, Honey, and Kitty. The family was rounded out by Paula’s furry addition in Violet and Julaine and Peter’s Finnie.
As a wife, she was always in Peter’s corner, certain in his ability and confident in his intellect, encouraging him to believe in himself and be his own advocate. She taught Peter about the importance of emotion, feeling, expressing, connecting, and knowing yourself on a deeper level. She was deeply invested in his health and well-being, inspiring his marathon running, cycling and personal training, ensuring his care was holistic and he was equipped to thrive. They shared many diverse trips together, from meditation retreats at the Omega Institute to decadent gastronomic getaways in France to scenic marathons in Big Sur and beyond, often inspired by Julaine’s adventurous spirit. They were partners in mischief, hosting raucous parties, loving to entertain and be among those they loved, and cultivating enduring friendships and community. She always found the silver lining for Peter.
As a mom, she knew everything, about anything, her children needed – help with an ailment, uncovering a memory, learning a ‘how’ to support a creative endeavour. It was her greatest joy to make happen any idea, wish or want, from making the perfect bunny costume to 2am visits to Kinkos for a school project to joining in a game (against her will). The fridge was always stocked with all of her children’s favourite things, and their friends always had a place in her home, welcomed with warmth and generosity. She inspired her children to be independent, to know and speak with their own voice, to breathe, to listen to their hearts and to decide their own path. She listened, always, with rapt attention, infinite patience and interest, hungry for every detail and asking questions to unearth each one. She made them feel safe, always, secure in her unconditional love and adoration. Julaine was an aunt, godmother and cousin to many who describe her as a second mum (and sister), throughout the many branches of the Brophy, Brent and Tillmann trees, always taking the time to know and nurture and bond. The requests she received to officiate weddings were a testament to these strong bonds.
As a Nana, Julaine was affectionate and supportive, always wanting to know all of what was going on in her grandchildren’s lives. She was the only one who could make penne pasta with butter and cheese in the perfect way, no one could do it like her, and the fridge and pantry stocking continued with all that delighted. She loved binge-watching a show with Liam and Owen, cozied up in the back room at the Victoria house, and playing games together. She was impossibly proud of everything her grandchildren had already accomplished in their young lives and was excited and certain about their future triumphs.
A beloved and generous friend. Able to harmonize a room just by walking into it, Julaine had a keen ability to make you feel seen and special; she was intentional in every relationship. She was endlessly curious about people, her interest, questions and memory for all of their/our details unmatched and often visible through small gifts she would share, one of her most evident love languages. Julaine was so fun (!), she was sassy and could make you laugh with a look, and would often fall into a wild and contagious giggle that would prompt Peter to lovingly say “uh oh, Jules has gone bad”, with a big grin on his face. Often circled by friends on the dance floor, the lady had Motown in her bones, grooving with style and an expression on her face that looked like she was saying ‘shhh’, her signature Jules dance face. She loved music of all genres, a love that she and Peter sewed into the fabric of John, Jen and Paula’s lives, with the help of her dear friends the Carmichaels. Julaine’s friendships were deep, expansive and enduring, from her high school, St. Mary’s, York and U of T days to her many close friends in Toronto, her walking groups, yoga circles, book club, lab-mates, and her Bayfield buddies. Her cousins were some of her closest friends. She was and will always be a cherished friend to so many.
A deeply connected intuitive. Julaine was intrigued by and explored various forms of spirituality, building upon a strong sense of faith established early in her life. She sought meaning and purpose throughout her life, regularly practicing reflection, willing to challenge herself and her perspective, and fostering self-awareness. Holistic wellness, throughout mind and body, was paramount for Julaine as a mother, wife and woman, and she regularly shared insights, wisdom and discoveries with her family and friends. This continued through her study of yogic tradition and mindfulness, which were powerful wellness tools she called upon throughout her life and in service of others, in pursuit of balance and wholeness. Julaine has been described as having a royal quality, something her family believes reflects her earth-healing archetype of The Wellspring (the buddha, the earth goddess, the witness) who emanates well-being and is here to remind us that the most profound healing comes from embodying the fullness of yourself and trusting in your enoughness. Julaine had immense presence, and this alone is the healing gift she was meant to bring to this world.
A passionate researcher and colleague. While completing her Ph.D. and for a further ten years, Julaine worked as a senior researcher at the Dr. Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study at OISE, where she managed research products related to early child development and education. During this time, Julaine collaborated with educators, school administrators, research officers, and parents to carry out research studies on parent involvement in schools and on Ontario’s full-day kindergarten implementation and impact. The bonds that Julaine forged with the numerous graduate students she trained and worked with continue to this day. Julaine was deeply committed to young children, to those who nurture them and to her many colleagues.
A vibrant and layered human being. Julaine was a night owl who loved fashion and all-things-matching, a California Chardonnay (unoaked), salted crunchy peanut butter, walking, Oprah, yoga, a bit of gossip, Netflix series, slightly twisted and cheeky humour, a great St Patty’s Day bash, shopping for a good bargain (“it was practically free”), a Pioneer Park sunset, researching…her children’s love interests, chunky KitKats, all things Irish, the lush gardens that Peter attentively cultivated, her daughter Paula’s gourmet cooking, her son John’s wicked sense of humour, her daughter Jenny’s life stories. She leaves a legacy of abundant love, and will be missed by all, never forgotten.
- Strong Minds Strong Kids (Psychology Foundation of Canada), dedicated to nurturing resilience in kids with the use of psychological science so they can manage, learn, and grow from the many challenges in life. Mum was a voluntary trustee for this organization and believed strongly in their purpose and impact.
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- Dr Eric Jackman Institute of Child Study at the University of Toronto, Canada’s most integrated and dynamic institution committed to children’s education and well-being. The institute is home to exemplary graduate programs, an award-winning laboratory school, and a dynamic centre for research. Mum spent many years working alongside other brilliant minds here, and a donation would enable more graduate students to carry on this important work.
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- Select a giving opportunity – Masters of Arts in Child Study & Education Bursary
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We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Michele McKenzie
Raising an Irish toast to a lovely lady and a life well-lived.
Gone too soon.
Sending my condolences from afar.
Dennis Hayes
Having recently communicated with my old girlfriend from 7th grade, Julaine, and comparing notes on our similar conditions and treatment prospects, I was surprised to learn of her passing.
She seemed so optimistic.
I most enjoyed the obituary which spanned a life with which I was only about 5% familiar with and happy to learn so much more.
She was beautiful. She was a good soul by every measure.
God bless her memory and God bless her family and all her friends.
Rick Booth
Peter, I’m saddened to learn of Julaine’s passing. My condolences to you, your family and your extended family. I know she will be missed.
Patrice Merrin
Dear Peter, Jenn, John and Paula,
The beautiful, bright and effervescent Julaine. How lovingly you have woven her many rich dimensions in sharing highlights of her life’s story.
Thinking fondly of you all and appreciating the hurt of loss as you hold tight happy memories and sounds.
Patrice
Lynd Hutchison
Our sincere condolences Peter and family.
Those who knew her or even got to share a moment(s) with her will forever remember the kind and wonderful woman she was.
May her memories live on forever.
Anne Murray
Dear Peter and Family
I was so saddened to hear of Julaine’s passing. Her light was extinguished far too soon, but the glow from it will be felt by SMSKPC long into the future. She made such an impact with her warmth, kindness, incredible knowledge and commitment to children.
My heartfelt thoughts are with all of you as you miss the rock Julaine was to so many, but none more so than yourselves .
Affectionately,
Anne (Murray).
Cecile Turnbull
We wish to extend our most sincere condolences to Peter and the family. We are very thankful Julaine crossed our path many years ago, every one of which we cherish. She will always stay in our hearts. She was a very accomplished lady, kind, funny, thoughtful and above all supportive and understanding.
We miss her!
Cecile & David, Nicole & Andrew
chrisi kramer
Dear Peter and children – My deepest condolences.
Julaine will always be remembered as a beautiful human being, generous, kind, and loving and so open and accepting.
As per past trainer, we had many laughs together and I loved training her. It was a great time of my life.
I am truly heartbroken for her family as she loved them all so very much!!
My condolences again, its a huge loss to everyone who knew her
Thinking of you all, Chrisi Kramer
Sue Howell
Dear Peter, John, Jennifer and Paula
What a beautiful tribute for a very beautiful woman. We were so honoured and blessed to have known Julaine as a dear friend and neighbour.
Our heartfelt condolences and love go to you all.
Nick and Sue Howell
Heather Chuter
Dear Peter, John, Jen, Paula and the rest of your beautiful family. What a beautiful tribute – tip of the iceberg to this immensely beautiful person we all adored. Sending love and healing to you at this time. Love you!
Cathy Backman
A beautiful tribute to a beautiful soul. The world is a little less bright. My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Harriet Lewis
Seeing Julaine’s beautiful picture makes me so sad. She was all the things noted in her obituary and in my memory, was above all gracious. Sincere sympathy to you all.
Michael Robinson and Andrea Geddes Poole
Dear Peter and family,
Andrea and I were so very sorry to learn of your tremendous loss. It was always such a distinct brightening point to spy Julaine across the room, either at some Fasken event or when skiing — she greatly enhanced the company by her presence. A great loss. Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Michael Robinson
Andrea Geddes Poole
Ruth Milton
Peter, I am so sorry to hear this news. Please know you are in my thoughts.
Connie and Loreto Sdao
Dear Peter, John, Jen and Paula:
We are thinking of you and your families at this very difficult time and offer our most sincere condolences.
We will always remember Juliane’s kind and gentle demeanor.
She made the world a better place.
Connie and Loreto Sdao
Alexandra Sdao
Peter, Paula, John, Robin, Jen, & Josh,
The words on this page are such a beautiful and vivid tribute to Julaine and instantly transport me to the many days spent in the warmth of her glow on Broadway Ave.
I am forever indebted to Julaine for bringing me one of my favourite humans on this planet, P. Her light lives on through each of you – I will hold her in my heart, always.
Sending you infinite amounts of love and condolences.
Alex
Janice Hick
Dear Peter,John, Lu, and Paula
I am at a loss for words, so I will hold on to so many wonderful memories of times spent with Jules, both happy and sad. They were wonderful times that our families spent together. Amy, Jenny and I send our love and prayers of condolence and support. Keeping you in our thoughts.
Shonna Petrook
Dear Peter, John & Robin, Jen & Josh, and Paula,
My heart is broken for you. Julaine was one of a kind. I’m so sorry that she was taken from your lives and the world far too soon. What an incredible impact she had on everyone who was fortunate to spend time with her and what a legacy she has left behind.
I will always cherish my memories of my time spent with you family – especially in Bayfield with the extended Tillman clan – you have a wonderful family who I know will surround you with an abundance of love and support as you navigate a new path ahead without your dear wife/Mum/nana.
My thoughts are with you.
Love,
Shonna
Nancy Wood
Dear Peter,
Charles and I were so so sad to read about Juliane’s passing. Just cannot imagine such a beautiful human being is now gone far too soon. We enjoyed our times with the two of you at MDS meetings in various locations and also a few special visits together at city homes or on the shores of Lake Huron – a common bond. The stories about Juliane are beautiful and helped us learn so much more about her passions and joys. Thinking of you and your family at this very tender time!
Nancy Wood
Pamela King
Peter and to her kids that I have not had the good fortunate to meet in person- I am so very sorry for this loss.
As college roommates, it was a time in our lives when we enjoyed innocence and naïveté. A time before illness had impacted us or our family members. During Julaine’s illness, we exchanged text messages weekly. I marveled that even during challenging moments of waiting for the next medical appointment or test result, she was determined to find reason to remain hope filled and grateful I so looked forward to seeing her in June at our 50th college reunion. Regrettably, illness came between that visit. As with my family members that have passed, Julaine now looks down upon me and all those that loved her from up above. Missing you already dear friend..
Jon Levin
Peter – I am very sorry to learn of your loss and wanted to pass on my condolences. You and Juliane were such a lovely couple and always a pleasure to be with, especially at firm events so long ago. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Jon Levin
Lawrence & Mio Elliott
We feel so very blessed to have known Julaine and had her part of our lives. We are honoured to have called her our friend.
The world is a better place for having Julaine pass through it for her brief 72 years yet impacting the lives of many.
Sincere condolences to Peter and family
Mio & Lawrence Elliott
Andrew & Melody Turnbull
Dear Peter, John & Robin, Jen & Josh, Paula, and Liam & Owen — we send our sincere condolences on the loss of Julaine. Her obituary is immensely thoughtful, lovely, and layered with depth and meaning, just like Julaine. She is looking down very proud right now and always.
Please accept our deepest sympathies during this incredibly difficult time.
Lots of love, Andrew & Melody
Mary Ann Colihan
Peter and family,
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your true Bayfield beauty.
Kind regards,
Paul and Mary Ann Adams
Sue Gammage
Dear Peter,
Reid and I were saddened to learn of Julaine’s death. We have fond memories of both of you and the early days in Bayfield.
Our thoughts and love go out to you and your family.
Much love,
Sue & Reid.
Judy Whittaker
Dear Peter, John, Jen and Paula
What a beautiful tribute to Julaine. She was such a beautiful human inside and out. While she was not in my life for a long time, it was such an important friendship for me. She was an inspiration and an angel who will never be forgotten.
Julaine had a way of making a friend feel heard, understood and supported. She was incredible. I will cherish her forever and live the lessons she shared with me.
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart is with all of you. Sending you love and prayers. Judy W
Liane and Avi
Dear Peter, John and Robin and the boys, Jen and Josh, and Paula,
We are so sorry for the loss of your beautiful and beloved Julaine. Thank you for capturing her spirit and impact in this loving tribute.
From Blessed Sacrament days to jaunts to Bayfield while at Western, and through many subsequent happy Jen-related milestone celebrations, Julaine (together with Peter) always exuded warmth and welcomed us like members of her wonderful extended family.
We feel so fortunate to have known such a special person.
Lots of love,
Li and Avi
Dr Robin Alter
Such a terrible loss! Julaine was a wonderful person and collaborator. I loved hearing her input and working alongside her. She had so much to contribute. My deepest condolences to her family who will miss her terribly. She left her mark on everything she touched and made it better.
Ruth Johnson & Les Cudmore
Peter and Family,
Sorry to read about this. Our deepest sympathies Peter.
Barbara Ward
Such a beautiful tribute that sensitively captures the many facets of Julaine’s remarkable life. I will treasure our time spent together.
With deepest sympathy,
Barbara MacKay Ward
Ester Cole
Dear family,
I am deeply saddened to learn that Julaine passed away so soon. I remember her contagious enthusiasm about the Foundation’s positive contributions and impact on communities.
She was highly motivated to strengthen our deliverables and program all along.
Julaine was such a warm and collaborative member of SMSK-Psychology Canada. She made friends easily while keeping in mind the organizational mission and its national profile.
With sympathy to her grieving family and friend, and may her positive light guide others along life’s way,
Dr. Ester Cole
Psychology Foundation of Canada
Psychology Foundation of Canada
Barbara Burke
Dear Peter, John , Jennifer and Paula
What a beautiful tribute to your mother . She was also humble , never tooting her own horn, so I especially loved reading about things I did not know about Julaine
She of course was such a dear dear friend to me and I miss her terribly .
She was so multi layered as you say and always led with her heart .
She has left a huge legacy and particularly in you her children .
She was such an inspiration to me in how she chose to navigate the last 18 months …feeling her feelings but with courage and gratitude for all the love surrounding her. I hope to live my life carrying what I learned from her .
Please know my heart is with all of you
Barbara Burke
Ron Yamada
Peter
What a great loss to you and your family, but a wonderful tribute to Julaine and to life so well lived.
Judy and I send our sincere condolences and prayers.
Ron and Judy Yamada
Jan Petrook
Dearest Peter, John, Jen and Paula – her obituary captures exactly how she was and it has brought back so many memories from when our families were intertwined – she was a bright shining light in your lives, and I am afraid- a lesson I have learned after my parents died – the penalty of having a wonderful parent, is the grief that comes with losing them.
Thinking of you, Jan Petrook