With profound sadness, we share the passing of our beloved sister, Dr. Julie Punzalan-Garcia, DMD. Born on August 8, 1962, in Philadelphia, PA, Julie entered eternal rest on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese, IL.
In her final days, we were blessed to say our goodbyes. Even as her strength waned and her voice grew faint, Ate Julie’s loving spirit never faltered. Despite facing a serious illness herself, she reminded us to care for our own health — a reflection of her selflessness and deep love for family. To her, family was everything, and her compassion and kindness were simply part of who she was.
From an early age, Julie lived with a servant’s heart. In high school, she joined organizations dedicated to helping blind and underprivileged children, embodying the same generosity and care that would remain central to her life. An alumna of International School Manila, Class of 1980, she went on to live a life marked by service, devotion, and love.
Julie is survived by her devoted husband of 37 years, Dr. Arnel Garcia, who cared for her tirelessly and stood faithfully by her side until the very end. Together they built a beautiful family, and she is also survived by her children, Jacqueline (Joseph O’Neill) Garcia-O’Neill of Kansas City, MO, and Adrian (Kaylee Flores-Garcia) Garcia of Corona, CA.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Trenton, Illinois.
Julie will be remembered as a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished sister, and compassionate friend whose life reflected grace, kindness, and unwavering love. She will forever remain in our hearts.
