Julie Ann Lay

Julie Lay ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Kearney on Mar. 17, 2026.Julianne "Julie" Lay, 77, of Holt, Missouri, passed away on March 14, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of steadfast faith, discipline, and service to others. A woman of deep conviction and quiet strength, Julie lived her life with purpose, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to her family and her church.Julie and her husband, Thomas Lay, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on February 7, 2026, marking five decades of shared love, ministry, and family life. For the past 30 years, Julie lived in Holt, Missouri, where she faithfully served alongside her husband in ministry and was a steady and devoted presence within the community of City on a Hill Church.Julie was far more than a pastor's wife; she was a true partner in ministry. As a faithful steward of City on a Hill Church, she worked quietly but diligently behind the scenes, supporting the church and helping guide its mission with humility and strength.Her dedication to order and intentional living was reflected in the journals she kept beginning in the early 1980s. Through these detailed writings, Julie captured the everyday moments of her family's life. She believed that even the smallest details of each day were worth preserving and honoring as gifts from God.More than anything, Julie treasured time spent with her family. She found great joy in gathering with her children and grandchildren-whether sharing a meal together, enjoying a night of games, or simply being present with those she loved most.Julie was preceded in death by her father, Leslie "Les" Bruce, who raised her as his own; her mother, Laurel "Laurie" Bruce; and her brother, John Bruce.She is survived by her beloved husband, Thomas Lay; her eight children, Mitchell Sund; Nathan Sund (Satina); Stacey Martinez (Michael); Joshua Lay (Shelby); Zachary Lay (Jenny); Katie Esquivel (Fernando); Micah Lay (Alisha); and Nicholas Lay (Deziree). She is also survived by her brother, Paul Bruce (Beth); her sister, Lynn Stutts; her sister-in-law, Mona Taylor (Don); as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry forward her legacy of faith and family.A Celebration of Life service honoring Julie's life will be held Saturday at City on a Hill Church in Holt, Missouri, the church she faithfully served and called home for more than three decades.Visitation and fellowship will begin at 5:00 PM, followed by the Celebration of Life service at 6:00 PM, with a meal to follow.Flowers may be sent directly to the church for the service. Those wishing to honor Julie's memory may make contributions to City on a Hill Church, continuing the legacy of faithful stewardship she championed for over thirty years.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.