Julie A. Mitchell

Julie A. Mitchell, a longtime resident of Davis, California for the past nine years, peacefully passed away in her home on April 12, 2026, surrounded by the ones she loved most. Born on November 30, 1948, in Oakland, California, Julie previously lived in Coarsegold, California for more than 40 years before moving to Davis in 2018.

Julie attended beauty school and was a gifted self-taught artist best known for her beautiful and deeply meaningful Spirit Figures. Her spiritual creations touched many lives and found homes all over the world. Julie once described her creations by saying:

“My Spirit Figures are part of my heart… they come to you as an offering. I create them from clay, fabric, beads, feathers, bones, and found or handmade embellishments. The joy for me comes when a figure and viewer connect.”

Julie was well loved throughout the Oakhurst and Coarsegold communities, where many admired not only her artistic talent, but also her unique spirit, kindness, and creativity.

She is survived by her fiancé, Mike Reed of Davis, California; her daughters, Erin Thomas of Cathey’s Valley, California, and Jillian Lots of New Zealand; and her beloved grandson, Shane Burgin, currently serving in the United States Navy and stationed in San Diego. She especially loved her grandson Shane’s hugs; her older sister Penny Cross and younger brother Bill Raap, both of Klamath Falls Oregon.

Julie’s love, creativity, and spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family will be honoring Julie privately.