Julia Forker

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Julie (Jewels) Forker on October
14, 2022, of brain cancer. She was born on April 20,1954 in Tulsa, OK as Julia Buhl
Forker and lived most of her younger years in Sharon, PA. where childhood memories
were created with her brothers, sisters, and a network of friends and family.  She was a
bright light in this world with a zest for life that was contagious.

Julie immediately lit up any room she entered and had an impact on all those who were
blessed to be in her company. She had a joyful presence, amazing spirit, and exquisite
taste in fashion and hosting events. She loved her family and friends and filled her
home with warmth and kindness. Julie had friends and extended family throughout the
country.  She always took time to connect with each of them, through calls, cards, and
visits. Her heart wide open for people dear to her or any persons in need. She spread
happiness as her elixir of life.

Julie was best known for her humor, fierce determination, and generous spirit. Most
importantly, Julie taught us how to live life to the fullest.

Her love of travel took her to many places in the US and around the world with her husband
Chuck, family members, and friends. The trips were a culmination of her organizational
talents and quest to “go over the top”.  There are many stories and memories of her
travels that are embedded in the memory banks of those who traveled with her. She
treasured each of these amazing experiences including the infamous sailing trips in the
Caribbean with the “Bad Girls”.

She began college at C.W. Post in Greenvale, NY, later transferring to the University of
Maryland in College Park, where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Therapeutic
Recreation. Later, while working full-time, she took on the difficult task of completing her
master’s degree in Public Administration.

After her undergraduate work, she began working part-time at MNCPPC (Maryland
National Capital Park and Planning Commission), Department of Parks and Recreation
in programs serving children with disabilities.  She was passionate about expanding
inclusive services for county residents of varying abilities.  Her hard work, commitment,
and professionalism did not go unnoticed.  This work turned into a 35-year career that
culminated in her serving as Deputy Director of the Recreation and Parks Department
before retiring in 2012.

Julie was always active in her community, organizing and volunteering at the local
shelter, Children’s Hospital, and her beloved church, St. Andrews Episcopal Church.

She will be extremely missed by her husband, Chuck Montrie, of 25 years and her dear
son William "Will" Hopkins of Northern Virginia. There will be a void in the lives of her immediate
siblings and their spouses:  Annette Weld (Chip Parker), Henry “Chick”, Thomas
“Tommy” S. (Vickie) and Lee (Carol) along with numerous nieces, nephews, and great
nieces and nephews.
She will be joined in heavenly spirit with her father, Henry Porter Forker III, mother, Julia
“Juge” Service Forker, and her brother Henry “Chick” P. Forker IV.

A “Celebration of Life” service will be held on Sunday, November 20, 2022 at 2:00 pm at
St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church 4512 College Avenue, College Park, MD 20740.  A
reception will be held in the Parish Hall immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcomed at Prince George’s County Community Crisis
Center. https://www.communitycrisis.org/?page_id=1748