Julie S. Karalis, age 73, of Branford, Florida passed away on October 29, 2026. Born in North Miami on September 29, 1953, to Joyce and Joseph Kover, Julie was a true Floridian, forever drawn to the sun and heat. Despite this love, which would eventually lead her back, Julie moved to Maine in her late teens and spent much of her adult life dancing across the state, raising her three kids and affectionately adopting cats, dogs and critters in need of loving homes. When not dancing or performing, she was most happy laughing and sharing traditions with her core family, which also included her sister, Diane, brother-in-law, Gary, and their two kids, Daniel and Ginger. Her family was bound by love and faith, which would sustain her throughout life.

In 1994, while being introduced around the office, she met her now-husband, Tony, who, thinking himself smooth, took her to a dance club for their first date, not realizing she’d spent her life perfecting this craft. They would eventually marry in the Bahamas on her birthday in 2001.

She proudly completed her broadcasting degree in 1996, leading her to become a producer at WLBZ2 in Bangor, ME, before she, Tony and John relocated to Pittsburgh, PA, with her eldest daughter, Mary, following closely behind. It was here that she expanded her passion and embraced ballroom dancing, eventually anchoring her social community.

After 24 years of memories in Pittsburgh, she and Tony returned to her treasured state of Florida, retiring in their new home close to her sister and brother-in-law. She immediately entrenched herself in the community, becoming a beloved presence in the local florist shop, dance studio, garden club, and Hand & Foot card club, while also enjoying rescuing animals and spending time with family and new-found friends.

Julie will forever be known for her faith, loving spirit, generosity, passion for dance, animals or shopping for a good deal, as well as her guilty pleasure of binge-watching Hallmark movies, despite relentless teasing from her kids.

She is survived by her husband, Tony, children, Mary, Laurie and John, granddaughter, Chloe, siblings, Gil, Don and Diane, brother-in-law, Gary, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Her memory and legacy will forever be a blessing to us all.

There will be a celebration of life held on November 14, 2026, at 11:00 am, with lunch to follow, at:

The Fort White Community Church
185 SW Well Street
Fort White, FL 32038

In lieu of flowers, please consider an Amazon wish list donation for the North Florida Animal Rescue (16800 Co Rd 137, Wellborn, FL 32094).