Julia Payne Waldman

Julia “Julie” Payne Waldman, a beloved resident of San Diego, passed away peacefully at home with her granddaughter, Sarah, by her side. Though we will miss her deeply, we find comfort knowing she has gained her eternal wings in heaven with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Julie was born in Washington D.C., the eldest of five children to Sarah Cauthen and Arnim Weiss. As the daughter of a Naval Commander, Julie had the unique privilege of being well-traveled at a young age, living in various places before her family eventually settled in San Diego. She graduated from North Chicago Community High School in 1957 and earned her nursing degree from the Washington Hospital Center School of Nursing in 1960.

After moving to San Diego, Julie lived with her sister, where she met a young firefighter who was moonlighting as a gardener at the complex. Their connection grew, and they married in 1968. Julie and her husband, Donald Waldman, bought their home in San Carlos, just up the street from her family’s home, where they became a united family, with Don’s daughters, Michele and Cynthia, joining them. Julie’s love of plants showed through when she planted mint along the side of the house, knowing it would be perfect for her tea.

Julie worked for many years at Grossmont Hospital, where she was a dedicated nurse in the nursery wing. She worked the late shifts, providing care and comfort to countless newborns and their families, a job she loved and took great pride in. Julie’s warm heart, compassion, and attention to detail left a lasting impression on both her colleagues and the families she cared for.

Julie and Don shared many adventures, including camping, fishing at Tony’s Camp in Baja California, and participating in community-based firefighting events. Her homemade brownies were a favorite at the firehouse and often left everyone asking for more. Julie had a love for Westerns, especially John Wayne films and Zane Grey novels, which often filled her evenings.

In 1990, Julie became a widow, but she didn’t let that slow her down. She took up new adventures, including bus tours, train rides, and cruises, always enjoying the company of those she loved. Julie had a talent for jigsaw puzzles, a hobby she perfected over the years, and her collection rivaled only the number of mystery novels lining her home’s bookshelves. If there was one thing she loved more than puzzles, it was a good mystery novel.

A beloved member of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Julie served on the board as treasurer and volunteered for Vacation Bible Study and altar duty. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and her home was always filled with the spirit of the holiday season— “Christmas is year-round in this house!” —a sentiment she proudly upheld. Her ability to make each holiday gathering special, from hosting Bunko to family birthdays, was a gift to all who knew her.

Julie was an accomplished seamstress and took pride in her work, especially when making baby blankets for every new addition to the family. Her thoughtfulness in gift-giving made her the beloved matriarch of her family, and her care for others was evident in everything she did.

Julie’s love for animals, particularly dogs, was a constant in her life. Even though she was allergic to cats, she adored them from a distance, never shying away from showing them love and affection. She was a loyal friend and family member, always willing to listen, share her wisdom, and offer her support in a way that only Julie could.

Julie lived her life with structure and embraced each day with a practical, steady approach. She was grounded, compassionate, honest, and loyal, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. Julie was predeceased by her mother, Sarah Weiss; father, Arnim Weiss; aunt, Julia Turnbull; and husband, Donald Waldman. She is survived by her two children, four sisters, one brother, six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, six beloved nieces and nephews, and five adored great-nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Julie’s legacy will live on in the love she shared, the memories and traditions she created, and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A memorial service will be held at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church on February 22, 2025 at 11:00am with a reception to follow.

May she rest in peace, knowing the love and warmth she gave will continue to live on in all who knew her.