Obituary of Julia Carolyn Haynes

Julia Carolyn Haynes was called home by the Lord on March 3rd, 2023 after an 18-month battle with medulloblastoma – a form of brain cancer. Julia was born on June 16, 2009 to Misty (Yeager) Haynes of Belchertown, MA and Wesley Haynes of Lawrenceville, PA. Julia is survived by her parents as well as her older brother, Jared Haynes. Belchertown was home for Julia where she resided with her mother and brother in addition to her “bonus” siblings, Nick, Abby and CJ Rivers, “bonus” dad - Christopher Rivers, and her dogs, Apollo and Loki. Julia’s strength and determination were inspirational both before and during her fight. She had a strong work ethic in both sports and her academics. Julia enjoyed school at Jabish Brook Middle School in Belchertown and being surrounded by her wonderful friends and teachers. Julia’s personality was contagious and full of positivity. She was easy going and kind and her motivation to accomplish her goals was incredibly strong. She loved gymnastics, downhill skiing, soccer, the beach, dogs and #16. She also loved candy, hibachi, Starbucks and breakfast at the Sargents’. She found the most joy being with her friends, who were priceless to her, and provided her unwavering support throughout her treatment. Julia was inspired by the St. Jude Children’s Research hospital staff, where she received her treatment, and wanted to be a pediatric oncology nurse when she grew up. In addition to her immediate family, Julia is survived by her paternal great grandparents, Carolyn and Wesley Fish of Knoxville, PA; paternal grandmother Wendy (Bruce) Cady of Knoxville, PA, maternal grandmother, Sandy (Ed) Maza of Osceola, PA, maternal uncle Thomas (Patty) Yeager, paternal aunts Trish (Jake) Gleason, and Amy Donaldson, and many cousins. Julia is predeceased by her paternal grandfather, Robert Haynes and maternal grandfather, Thomas Yeager. All are invited to attend a wake which will be held Friday, March 10 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Belchertown Funeral Home. A celebration of life which will be held Saturday, March 11 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church. Kindly meet directly at the church. Guests are encouraged to wear purple, Julia’s favorite color and come dressed casually, as Julia didn’t like dressing up! In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org or to Strong Little Souls via Venmo @StrongLittleSouls.