WILMINGTON — Julie Annette (Kent) Preece, of Hubert, went home to be with the Lord on December 17, 2024, at Onslow Memorial Hospital with her children by her side. She was born on January 30, 1961 in Wichita, Kansas to the late Michael Kent, II and Muriel (Faker) Kent. She was 63 years old at the time of her passing.
Julie graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, with a minor in Theology, from Baylor University in Waco, TX, where she also spent a significant portion of her life before relocating to Hubert, NC. She pursued an admirable career as a Lab Director, contributing her expertise to hospitals and independent practices. Her work was not just a profession but a calling, through which she touched many lives with her commitment and knowledge.
An avid movie buff and reader with a particular fondness for the Bible, Julie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her hands were rarely without a project (though many remained unfinished) and she was known to always have a Dr. Pepper in hand or at least nearby. Her cooking skills were unmatched, especially when it came to her famous guacamole, cheesy potatoes, and shrimp Gabriella, dishes that will remain beloved staples at family gatherings.
Above all, Julie cherished her roles as a mother and grandmother, spoiling them was her greatest joy in life. Affectionately known as “Mimi,” she was the heart of her family, bringing warmth and an abundance of hugs to her three children, Victoria Kinney with whom she lived with, Alexandria Ulrich (Joel) of Weatherford, TX and Matthew Preece of Dallas, TX; as well as her grandchildren, Seamus, Lylah, Timothy (Victoria) Aislynn, Ellison and Landyn (Alexandria).
In addition to her children and grandchildren, Julie is survived by her sisters, Jamie Kent of Jefferson City, MO, Michelle Base (Raymond) of Boynton Beach, FL, Karrie Callaway (Fred) of Margate, FL; brother, Michael Kent, III of Jefferson City, MO; step-mother, Joy Kent of Boynton Beach, FL; and her great- aunt, Marcia Warren of Amarillo, TX. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit and shares in the profound sorrow of her passing.
Julie was known to be a quiet person—until, of course, she wasn’t. When she had something to say, it was always thoughtful, often witty, and sometimes loud. Passionate about her beliefs, she could turn any conversation into a lively debate that left you pondering for days. She was unafraid to voice her convictions when it mattered most and this world is better for having known her.
Julie’s service details will be announced at a later date. Until then, raise a glass of Dr. Pepper—or perhaps whip up a batch of her famous guacamole—and remember Julie as a passionate Christian who lived a life rich in love, laughter, and the occasional unfinished project.
May she rest in peace, forever remembered and cherished.
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