Julia P. Neely was born on March 18, 1940 to Martha Ervin and Lewis Bolden. Both parents, her two sisters, Ruby Hester and Flora Jean Ashley and her eldest son, Samuel Franklin preceded her in death.

At an early age, the family moved from Memphis, TN to St. Louis, MO, where Julia was raised. She received her education in the St. Louis Public School System. In 1974, Julia moved her family to East St. Louis, Illinois where she resided until her passing. She worked as a dietician and home healthcare provider from which she retired.

Julia was a strong, beautiful loving mother (Big Momma) (Granny) and best friend. She enjoyed cooking, writing poetry, reading her bible and spending time with her grandchildren. Julia accepted Christ in her life. Julia not only accepted the Lord as her Savior, but she lived to be a witness for Christ, which she shared with family, friends, and strangers until her final days here on earth.

On Sunday morning, March 19, 2017, Julia P. Neely peacefully made her transition from her earthly home. She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Laurie Bolden, Crystal Johnson, Murietta Rome, Julie (Gary) Harper, Pamela (Irwin) Thames, Christopher (Patricia) Beard, Tracie Mason, Phillip (Millisa) Davis and Mandy Neely; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other relatives and friends.