Julie Janine Lehiy, née Mattoon, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, in Manhattan, Kansas, surrounded by loved ones. Born on November 24, 1975, in Chehalis, Washington, Julie’s precocious personality became quickly evident, earning her the nickname “Unruly Julie.” Her wit and spirit touched everyone she encountered. She will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Julie was a devoted animal lover. As a little girl she was notorious for “rescuing” neighbors’ pets! She enjoyed learning to ride horses at her grandparents’ home in Nederland, CO as a teen. She especially loved visiting local and regional zoos with her parents. In her lifetime she rescued dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits, and even pigeons.

Even with her declining health, she made a point of making her family and their needs a priority. In the last several years, Julie enjoyed quality time with her loved ones above all else. She called her mom almost every morning and sang “you are my sunshine” to brighten her day. She was very proud when her father Alan adopted her and even prouder when she became a big sister to Jocelyn. Her child Zephyr was her ultimate pride and joy. The recent arrival of her nephew, Callum, brought joy to Julie’s life and she relished the role of doting aunt.

Julie graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Kansas State University, managing her academic pursuits with a full-time job and raising her child. Her commitment to furthering her knowledge continued as she pursued a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.

Professionally, Julie found administrative work especially fulfilling. She worked at AJRS in Manhattan for many years as a bookkeeper. Prior to that, she brought warmth and efficiency to her role in soldier in-processing at Fort Riley for several years.

She was a creative soul who enjoyed crafting, including crocheting, calligraphy, coloring, and diamond art. She was known for her beautiful handwriting and journaling.

Julie was the leader of a kindred clan for a few years. She enjoyed learning the teachings of many religions and especially enjoyed studying the Bible.

Above all, Julie’s heart was devoted to her family. She is survived by her partner Jason Kidd (Manhattan, KS), child Zephyr (Lawrence, KS), parents Alan and Janine Mattoon (Dwight, KS), sister Jocelyn Mattoon, brother-in-law, Cody Schickedanz and nephew Callum (Manhattan, KS), grandmother Geri Stiers (Mission Viejo, CA), as well as several aunts and uncles. She was predeceased by her maternal grandfather Ron Stiers and paternal grandparents Clifton and Loretta Mattoon, as well as her half sister, Lisa and her biological father.

Julie’s ashes will be scattered in Oahu, Hawaii, which she considered home as a military child. A memorial stone will be placed in the Stiers family plot in Ohio.

A celebration of life is planned for November 15, 2025, at 2 pm at Sunset Zoo, 2333 Oak Street, Manhattan, KS.