Obituary: Julie Reid, 1972-2025

Julie Ann Reid of South Burlington, Vt., passed away far too young at 52, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication and strength.

Julie precedes in death her beloved parents, Robert and Mary Reid; her brother, John, and her treasured children, Bryant and Brianna Hinchliffe. Her love for Bryant and Brianna was not just deep; it was fierce, protective and all-consuming. They were her world, her purpose, her joy. She carried them with her in every breath, every thought, every heartbeat. Her devotion to them was the very essence of who she was, and her love for them will continue to echo into the lives of those who knew her.

Julie also leaves behind the father of her children; many loving aunts, uncles, nieces and cousins; and a circle of lifelong friends who were more than companions; they were her chosen family. Julie had a rare gift for friendship. She made people feel seen, heard and deeply loved. Her friends considered her a sister, and her passing has shattered hearts across generations. The grief is raw, the loss immeasurable.

Julie could be the biggest light in the room. You know the kind. A laugh that made you want to laugh along, a presence that was pure energy. She was a woman who was always down for a good time, who loved to dance and who wasn’t above a little carpool karaoke on the way to school drop-off. She grew up in Vermont, a place that shaped her spirit. From a young age, she understood the value of hard work, pouring herself into her studies to build the foundation for a great future.

That drive took her far. After graduation, she dedicated 17 years to IBM, where her talent and tenacity saw her through the ranks with impressive speed. She built a career she could be proud of, but her greatest pride, her deepest love, was reserved for her children.
To her gorgeous redheaded twins, Bryant and Bri, she was simply Mom. And she loved them more than life itself. She worked tirelessly to provide a beautiful home for them in South Burlington, in a home nestled beside the Vermont Country Club golf course, where so many memories were made. In the last eight years, Julie found herself at home in Charlotte, N.C.

Her love for life extended beyond her home. Julie loved to travel, to attend concerts, to see the world in all its color and variety. She enjoyed the simple pleasures, too: a round of golf, a bike ride through the Vermont landscape, a quiet walk to clear her head.

Alongside her vibrant energy, Julie also had a gentle, reflective side. She was comfortable being a quiet presence, taking in the world and those around her with thoughtful appreciation. It’s a reminder that even those who shine the brightest can carry unseen burdens. We often see the highlight reel — the dancing, the laughter, the adventures. We don’t always see the moments in between. We don’t always know the depth of battles being fought behind a familiar smile.

Julie was a fighter, a mom and a friend. She was complex and real. And now, she is deeply, profoundly missed. Her absence leaves a void that words can’t quite fill.

Julie’s legacy will live on through her beloved children, family, and all those whose lives she touched with her kindness and strength. Her laughter, generosity and unwavering support will be forever cherished and remembered by her friends and community. We are grateful for the precious time we shared with Julie and will hold her in our hearts always.

A Mass of Christian Celebration will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, 2 p.m., at Christ the King — St. Anthony Parish, 305 Flynn Ave., Burlington, Vt. A celebration of life will follow.

This article appears in Oct 29 – Nov 4 2025.