Julie Ann Olmsted

Julie Olmsted, a beacon of love, warmth, and adventurous spirit, passed away surrounded by her adoring family on September 9, 2026, after a courageous battle Born on October 23, 1958, in Anthony, Kansas, Julie graced the world with her kindness, intelligence, and unwavering faith.

Julie was a beloved daughter to her mother, Maurine Smith, and the late Monte Mitchell. She was predeceased by her father and her niece, Erin Mockeridge. Julie leaves behind a family who adored her, including her devoted husband, Todd Olmsted, whom she married on April 26, 2013. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and countless adventures.

Julie was a proud and loving mother to her children, Chris, Jon, and Melissa Downing (partner Mike Nelson), and a caring stepmother to Allison Swanson (husband Tim Swanson) and Kyleigh Olmsted. She was a sister to Mark, David, and Deborah Mitchell and a beloved aunt to Brittany Bruno and Joshua Mitchell. Julie's heart overflowed with joy for her grandchildren, Carter and Sloan Swanson, whom she loved dearly.

Her academic journey began at Central High School in Burden, Kansas, after which she pursued higher education with a bachelor's degree in Business Management from Friends University and an MBA from Baker University.

Julie had a distinguished career, dedicating 19 years to Boeing before embracing new opportunities at Cessna as a Senior Accountant. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish her own agency with Farmers Insurance Group and Financial Services, where she thrived and was recognized with numerous awards, including winning Toppers multiple times and The Million dollar round table.

Julie was a dedicated community member, actively serving on the boards of the Derby Community Foundation and the Rotary Club of Derby and created Christmas in the park in Derby.

Her compassionate heart guided her volunteering efforts with Habitat for Humanity and her involvement with Go Red for Women.

A lover of adventure, Julie embraced every new experience with open arms. She held a special place in her heart for her horses, Taffy, Chippy and the horse community. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she found solace and strength in reading her Bible.

Julie's viewing is September 18 at Smith Mortuary, 1415 N.Rock Rd., between 5:00 and 7:00 pm. Her life will be celebrated at a service on September 19, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Life Church, located at 2801 N Buckner, Derby, Kansas 67037.

The family kindly suggests that those wishing to honor Julie's memory consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society in support of lung cancer research or the Bluestem Equine and Livestock Rescue.

Julie Olmsted's legacy of kindness, strength, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all.