Julia Ann Lardi, age 65, of Coal City, IL passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 12, 2026 at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, IL.

She was born on September 3, 1961 in Charleston, IL to Donald and Mary (Stanfield) Franklin. She grew up in the Coal City area, graduating from Coal City High School in 1979. She married her high school sweetheart, Brett Lardi, on August 25, 1979 in Morris. Together they raised their family of 4 children. Julia was an active member and servant of the New Community Christian Church in Morris, acting as their longtime administrative assistant. She taught Sunday School, loved on babies and hosted a monthly retiree lunch at the church.

Family was so important to Julie. She doted on her kids as they grew up. And nothing would keep her from being with her 4 grandchildren, who became the loves of her life. She was always ready to help extended family whenever the opportunity arose. We remember Julie hosting Halloween gatherings with soup and sandwiches, and she loved decorating her home for Fall and Christmas.

Julie was a special person who loved and served wherever she went. Her love seemed to have no limits, but she especially cared for young people with special needs and those dealing with other difficulties in life. She was the friend that everyone wished to have – devoted, non-judgmental and willing to help with anything. From late night rides to hospital visits to sports activities, she was a strong support to so many. She had a great ability to listen and could always offer hope to others. Her laugh was engaging and infectious. Julie spearheaded the local food truck delivery for Northern Illinois Food Bank each week. Her energy seemed endless as she gave of herself in so many ways. We have lost an important link in the chain of our lives, and we will strive to push forward without her.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Brett Lardi; parents, Don and Mary Franklin; 2 daughters, Taylor (Micah) Hintze and Allie (Kevin) Keinath; 2 sons, Jason Lardi and Kyle (Ashley) Lardi; four grandchildren, Harper and Cooper Lardi and Ellie Grace and Piper Mae Keinath; 2 sisters, Cindy (Kevin) Yandell and Patsy (Kevin) Phillips; 2 brothers, Rick (Blanca) Franklin and Phil (Chris) Franklin; mother-in-law, Shirley Lardi ; sister-in-law, Kim (Kenny) Walker; special friend, Barbie (Ken) Spelde and numerous very loved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Jack Lardi.

Cremation rites will be accorded.

A memorial funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the New Community Christian Church, 1380 Heritage Drive, Morris, IL 60416. Pastor Kevin Yandell will officiate.

Memorial contributions in Julia’s honor may be directed to New Community Christian Church (1380 Heritage Drive, Morris IL 60450 or newcommunity.com), Grundy County Special Connections (specialconnections.org) or Northern Illinois Food Bank (solvehungertoday.org).

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guestbook at www.ferrarifuneral.com

Ferrari Funeral Services are entrusted with arrangements.