Obituary of Julianne B. Follansbee

Julianne B. "Julie" Follansbee, 87, of Bradenton, Fla. and Chautauqua, NY, died Friday, September 21, 2012 at Absolute Care of Westfield. She was born October 8, 1924 in Minneapolis, Minn., the daughter of the late Marvin C. and Caroline (Roberts) Barnum. Julie was the widow of George L. "Shorty" Follansbee, to whom she was married for 63 years until his death on June 20, 2008. She tirelessly supported her husband's career at Phillips Academy, as headmaster of Pittsburgh's Shady Side Academy and at Albuquerque Academy in New Mexico for many years. Julie served as president of the Pittsburgh YWCA for a number of years, and while living in Albuquerque was a founder and leader of the 'Reach To Recovery' for breast cancer patients. A proud member of eight family generations at Chautauqua Institution, Julie was active in the Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle (CLSC). She was also an avid golfer at Chautauqua and in Florida. Throughout the years, she enjoyed sewing, quilting and was an extraordinary knitter. Julie is survived by a daughter, Caran Redington and her husband Dick, and a son, Geof Follansbee and his wife, Gay. Also surviving are four grandchildren: Rick Redington, Casey Leenders-Redington, Matt Redington and Emily Follansbee; two step-grandchildren, Marcia Ward Murray and Andrew Ward; two great-grandchildren, Madeleine Julianne Leenders and Jason Leenders; and two step-great-grandchildren, Logan and Tristan Murray. At Julie's request, a private family memorial service will be held. Visitation will not be observed. Inurnment will be in the Chautauqua Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Chautauqua Foundation, P.O. Box 28, Chautauqua, NY 14722.