Julia Elizabeth (Kelly) Hannah, 55, of Norfolk, Virginia, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026. Born on April 8, 1970, in Columbia, South Carolina, Julia lived a life defined by passion, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to love and care for others.
Julia was the beloved daughter of Eugene Walter Kelly Jr. and the late Betty Joyce (Ledford) Kelly. She is survived by her cherished daughters, Ginger Elizabeth Hannah and Lilli Marie Hannah; her mother-in-law, Phyllis Jean Warren; her sister, Jeanne Marie Kelly and brother-in-law, Christopher Sean Abell; her brothers, William David Jonsen and Eugene Walter Kelly III; her brother-in-law James F. Rogers; nieces Rebecca Rogers and Margaret (Rogers) Pickles ; and nephew Bill Rogers. She was predeceased by her husband, Timothy Hannah; her sister Amy (Kelly) Rogers; her grandparents Eugene Walter Kelly Sr. and Beverly May (Nugent) Kelly; and Samuel Robert Ledford and Edna Lucille (Runyon) Ledford.
Julia’s life was a testament to her deep compassion and fierce dedication to helping others. Whether teaching young children or caring for the frail and elderly, she devoted herself to advocating for the marginalized and vulnerable in society. Her steadfast belief in loving one’s neighbors as family guided her actions daily. A voracious reader with a love for media, Julia channeled her passion into political activism later in life. She became a content creator and founded one of the largest online communities supporting Bernie Sanders during his presidential campaign. Through this platform, she raised her voice to protect others and champion causes close to her heart.
A Funeral Service will be held on March 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Emmanuel Episcopal Church; 5181 Singleton Way, Virginia Beach, VA, 23462. The service will be followed by the Interment and Memorial Reception.
The family would encourage people, in honor of Julia and in lieu of flowers or other gifts, to make donations of time and money to a meaningful cause or organization that reflects her values. Please consider these local Virginia Beach charities: Hope For Life Animal Rescue on Jack Rabbit Rd., Samaritan House on Southern Blvd., or Recovery for Life on Lynnhaven Road.
Julia’s legacy of love, laughter, and advocacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.” Please post your fondest condolences to the family on the Cremation Society of Virginia website during this difficult time.