Julia-Ann Faith Juba

Julia-Ann Faith Juba, born on August 15, 2003, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, spent her entire life in Portage la Prairie, where her roots ran deep. She passed away unexpectedly on September 24, 2024, at the age of 21. Julia was an old soul with a fierce inner child, whose wit and charm endeared her to everyone she met. Her kind heart and unwavering dedication to helping others touched countless lives, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.

As a compassionate caregiver for assisted living adults with New Directions, Julia’s love for making a difference shone brightly. Throughout her life, she held various jobs, including roles at Sobeys, Co-Op, the Central Plains RecPlex and Golf Course, and What’s the Scoop ice cream shop. She also worked as a Dietary Aide at Portage Hospital and made a significant impact at the Portage Learning and Literacy Centre, first as a volunteer and then as a Young Engagement Leader. Julia’s affinity for animals led her to volunteer with PAWS Animal Rescue, where her dedication to their care was evident.

Throughout her life, she was always rescuing, adopting, and fostering animals, creating a safe haven for those in need. This commitment to animal welfare reflected her generous spirit and deep empathy for all living beings.

Julia also held a deep appreciation for her Indigenous culture and had recently sought guidance from kismet elder, Angela to connect more profoundly with her heritage. She was eager to learn about picking medicine, understanding sacred traditions, and often practiced smudging, as these experiences enriched her connection to her roots and deepened her sense of identity.

In school, Julia excelled in volleyball, badminton, and track and field, where her competitive spirit and team camaraderie thrived. After graduation, she continued to organize adult recreational volleyball and stayed active with her friends. Beyond athletics, she was a talented artist, expressing herself through painting, poetry, and journaling. Her vibrant works will be treasured by her friends and family forever, serving as a lasting reminder of her creativity and spirit.

Julia loved spending time outdoors, playing guitar, writing songs, collecting rocks, playing video games, and having dance parties. She enjoyed making crafts and gifts for others, always supporting those she loved. Her spirituality was important to her, and she connected with others through crystals and tarot cards. As a passionate journaler, she poured her thoughts and dreams onto the page, capturing the essence of her vibrant spirit.

Julia was a beloved daughter and a bright light in her family’s life. She was her mother Bronwyn's perfect angel. Since the moment she asked Shea to be her dad, he never left her side, providing unwavering support and love throughout her life. Her grandmother, Rhonda, was her best friend, and their profound relationship was filled with witty banter and carefree moments that brought joy to everyone around them. Julia shared a special bond with her younger brother, Jayce, who was only one year her junior. They grew up side by side, creating cherished childhood memories. She was also deeply in love with her boyfriend, Brayden; the two were planning a beautiful life together, filled with shared dreams and adventures.

Julia is survived by her parents, Bronwyn and Shea; her grandmother, Rhonda; grandfather, Barry; her brother, Jayce Juba (Mercedes); chosen sister, Emily; Uncle Tyson; her Great Baba, Verna; Auntie Tasha, Uncle Curtis, and their three boys, Fitz, Bodie, and Wells; Uncle Justin; cousins Travis (Nicole) - River and Jayden, and Jeff (Sammie) -Isaac; friends Sarah and Gabe, and the “Squad”; Grandma Brenda; her boyfriend Brayden; and her cherished extended family, Elaine, Murray, Mike, Iris, and Dayna, who embraced her as one of their own.

There are many more family members and friends whose lives she touched, too numerous to list, but who will remember her always. She is predeceased by her Great Uncle Harvey, cousins AJ and Dan, her friend Marlin, Uncle Jamie and her cat Nadon.

Julia was a source of inspiration to many, known for her positivity, strength, and ability to lift others up. Above all, she was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Viewing and Visitation will take place at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel on Friday, October 4, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Family and friends are welcome to gather at Hillside Memorial Park on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 2:00 pm, where Julia Ann Juba's body will be returned to the earth. The family invites those in attendance to gather at her parents' place for the last night of her fire. Her light, love, and strength will continue to inspire us all.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021