Julie Ann Knapp

RUMFORD – Julie Ann Knapp, 55, of Rumford passed away suddenly on Wednesday April 2, 2025, surrounded by family. Julie was born on Jan. 26, 1970, on the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia. She was the daughter of Kenneth D. Knapp, and Margaret E. Libby-Smith. She was a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and beloved friend.

Julie attended schools primarily in Mexico at Abbott School and Meroby Elementary School, and Dixfield at Dirigo High School. Julie returned to Mexico High School, where she played field hockey. She was part of Mexico High School, class of 1988.

Julie welcomed her first child, Kaitlyn during the summer of ’91 and her second born, Alix during the mid fall of ’97. She adored her children with all her heart and loved being a mother.

On June 28, 1997, Julie married Gerard Greenleaf, of Jay. They spent many years together, creating memories. Eventually, life took them in different directions – but they remained very close friends.

Julie was someone who invested love and goodness in every relationship she had. She was always so positive and could find the light in every situation. She dabbled in several different trades, including factory work, fast food, convenience stores, nursing homes, and her passion: in-home healthcare.

You could often find Julie at the bingo hall. Bingo was one of her absolute favorite hobbies. She also enjoyed spending time with her family, going for walks in town and taking drives. She also loved music, baking, and bunnies. She loved dogs!! She always found ways to stay busy and in-touch with her community.

Although we mourn the loss of our beloved “Juls”, we know that she is pain-free with the Lord. She’s always had a relationship with God – which carried her through many of life’s obstacles. Most recently, Julie fought and beat breast cancer. Unfortunately, her body couldn’t withstand all that she went through. Mom was a fighter in all areas of her life. She earned Her crown. We know that she is now made new in Christ, Jesus.

Julie is survived by her birth father Kenneth Knapp of Dixfield, mother Margaret Pelletier and stepfather Daniel Pelletier of Canton. Daughter Kaitlyn Cote, husband Ryan and granddaughter Wren of Peru; son Alix Greenleaf and granddog Boomer of Bridgton. Ex-husband/close friend Gerard Greenleaf, of Fairbanks, Alaska. Stepsiblings Darcy Merrill and husband Kip of Dixfield, Tammy Pelletier of Dixfield, Daniel Pelletier and companion Kim of Dixfield. Half brothers Eric Knapp and Frank Knapp. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and beloved friends.

Julie was predeceased by Nana Julia Smith, Memere Flora Pelletier, Aunt Rhonda Smith, Grampa Harry Smith Sr. and mother, Grammy Helen Barker, Aunt Ruthe Veilleux-Knapp, Aunt Debbie Addams-Knapp, Aunt Gloria Jones and other aunts and uncles.

Services will be held at Thibault Remembrance Center, 250 Penobscot Street, Rumford, ME at 2:30 p.m., Friday April 25, 2025. Doors open at 2 p.m.

A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following services, at American Legion, 184 Congress Street, Rumford, 3-7 p.m. In honor of Julie’s unique style and vibrant spirit, we encourage tie-dye attire to be worn at her services.

Please visit http://www.ThibaultRemembranceCenter.com to sign Julie’s guestbook and leave memories and condolences for the family.