Julie Ann Ridgeway, 62, of Ottumwa, Iowa passed away on May 11, 2026 at the Davis County Hospital in Bloomfield. She was born on April 24, 1964 in Keosauqua, Iowa to Melvin Dale and Marilyn Lucille Aylor Ridgeway. Julie graduated from Davis County High in 1982. Her passion in healthcare started with the many years she worked at Davis Acres in Davis County. She later earned an associate’s degree in surgical technology at Indian Hills Community College and worked as a traveling surgery technician for many years.
Julie loved being around people and spending time with her family – especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed attending their school and sporting events and was always interested in what they were doing. She also enjoyed baking, gardening and canning, riding horses, and spending time with her longtime companion, Tony Rupe. Julie had a big heart for animals and adored her dog, Ollie. She will be missed by her family and friends.
She is survived by two children, Jenni (Tyler) McClure of Bloomfield, Jerid (Taylor) Grim of Bloomfield; four grandchildren, Asher McClure, Jalyn McClure, Harley Grim, Tucker Grim; two sisters, Nancy Davis, Sandy Cronk both of Keosauqua, Iowa; brother, Jerry Ridgeway of Bloomfield; and boyfriend, Tony Rupe of Ottumwa.
She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Tammy Jo Ridgeway.
Julie’s wish was to be cremated. A celebration of life will be held from 5-8:00 p.m. on May 29th at the Davis County Fairgrounds in Bloomfield. A memorial has been established to the Heartland Humane Society in Ottumwa.
