Julia Trahan Montague

Julia Ann Montague, a dedicated advocate for those with developmental disabilities, passionate supporter of the Louisiana Special Olympics, and follower of Christ passed away on December 24, 2023. She was born on September 16, 1959, in Crowley, Louisiana, to Harold Lee Trahan and Betty Ann Stewart Trahan. Julia was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Anna Trahan and Helen Trahan.

She is survived by her loving children, Daniel DiPetta (Maria) and Krysta Cotton; her siblings, Hilda Trahan, Harold Lee Trahan, Jr., Benjie Trahan, and Mary Trevort; and her cherished grandchildren, Kaylen Sammons, Daniella DiPetta, and Titus DiPetta.

Julia graduated from Lafayette High School and later earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from McNeese University. Her professional life was dedicated to being a case worker for adults with developmental disabilities. She committed herself to ensuring that these individuals were not overlooked by the system and had opportunities to lead fulfilling lives, enjoying basic liberties like independent living and employment. Julia’s passion for landscaping and gardening was reflected in her work, as she shared her love for plants by teaching those, she worked with to garden and landscape.

In her spare time, Julia served as the SW Director of the Louisiana Special Olympics, devoting 40 years of her life to volunteering, coaching, and fundraising. Her commitment was a labor of love, bringing joy to the athletes who participated in the events.

Julia was a faithful follower of Christ. She was a member of the Enterprise Boulevard Church of Christ.  She enjoyed volunteering, worship, and fellowshipping with her brothers and sisters in Christ.

Julia faced a valiant and courageous battle against pancreatic cancer for the last seven years. The cancer spread throughout her body and eventually reached her brain. Despite the challenges, Julia did not let cancer define her spirit. She underwent bi-weekly chemotherapy treatments for six years, endured three major brain operations, and faced the difficulties of her illness with remarkable strength and resilience. Throughout it all, she maintained a positive outlook and continued to wear a smile each day.

While cancer claimed her life, it did not defeat Julia. Those who knew her and witnessed her unwavering determination understood that her spirit prevailed until the very end. Julia’s legacy lives on through the lives she touched and the positive impact she made on the community she served.

A memorial service to celebrate Julia’s life will be held on Wednesday, December 27^th at 10:00 AM at Johnson Funeral Home, 4321 Lake St, Lake Charles, La 70605. Visitation will be from 5:00 until 7:00 on Tuesday, December 26^th at Johnson Funeral Home and will resume on Wednesday from 9:00 AM until the start of the service.  A graveside service will be held following the service at 2:00 PM in Indian Bayou Methodist Cemetery in Indian Bayou.