Julie Mae Martin Stumberg, 84, of Alpine died at Big Bend Regional Medical Center, surrounded by family, on June 10, 2026.

Graceful, petite, demure, reserved…these words have never been used to describe her. Instead, everyone knew her as full of life, vibrant, loud, bold, and always the life of the party. She never met a stranger, even when the stranger didn’t want to be met. She lived big, loved big, and her death will leave a huge hole in the lives of many.

Born on July 16, 1941, to Robert and Mary Martin, she was the seventh of eight children. As one of the youngest children, her older siblings would often try - and fail – to make her just a part of the crowd. Even as a young adult, she was the heart of her entire family. She unfailingly reached out to each family member on every birthday and Christmas, and was the hub of the family network, keeping everyone apprised of all the gossip.

She moved to Alpine in 1970 and married Steve in 1976. She enjoyed her life as a mother and rancher’s wife. She kept busy feeding the ranch hands during round-ups and accompanying Steve on his daily trips to the ranch. The 50 years they spent together were a kaleidoscope of experiences and adventures that added up to a loving, devoted relationship that will survive her.

As the star of her high school and church choirs, her voice could always be heard soaring above all others when a hymn moved her. When she opened her business, Knit One, Crafts Too in 1986, it was to offer tailoring and knitting supplies to the area. In reality, it served as a place for her to keep a never-empty coffee pot and to get to know everyone who came through her door. Everyone who knew her well has received an afghan, baby blanket, or one of her other handmade symbols of love.

As one of her nieces said of her, “I thank God for Uncle Julie. She’s always positive and full of grace and love.”

She is survived by her children Deronda Baughman, Randy Stumberg, Rhonda Kelliher, Sondra Davis, and Rachael Hurst, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

A private memorial service will be at a later date.

Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to the American Lung Association or the COPD Foundation. Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at Mobile Mortician of Texas at www.mmoftexas.com.