Julia Gabriel 1941-2025

Julia was born the second of four children to Joseph and Julia Roberto Roberts. Julia was raised through the fourth grade on Superior Street in Brier Hill. She was to start fifth grade on Elm Street and attended St. Edwards School kindergarten through 9th grade. She graduated from Ursuline High School in 1959.

Julia was to work part-time and attend Youngstown State University, where she graduated in September 1970 with a Bachelor of Science degree in education.

Julia was a teacher in the local parochial schools before she left to teach in the Cleveland local parochial schools for four years. Upon returning home, she worked for three years in Hubbard schools, where she met and married Peter J. Gabriel on Aug. 1, 1970.

Julia left teaching to raise her family, but became a church secretary with Bethel Baptist until it closed. During her early days as a Christian, she held in-home prayer groups and Bible studies. She also was a substitute teacher in the local schools for 10 years.

Besides being preceded in death by her parents, Julia was also preceded in death by her sister, Mary Donofrio; and brother, Joseph C. Roberts.

Julia leaves her husband, Peter Gabriel, just a few months short of 55 years of marriage; along with their sons, Peter (Amy) Gabriel and Joseph (Terese) Gabriel; four grandchildren, Danielle Gabriel, Jocelyn Gabriel, Peter Gabriel Jr. and Alyssa Gabriel. A brother, Don Roberts of Columbus, is also living. Nieces, Juliana Johnston and Mary Kay Heil; and nephew, Ralph Donofrio, were also her godchildren. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

We would like to thank Continuing Healthcare in Mineral Ridge, especially the past and present nurses and aides who took care of Julia in the Nora’s Place dementia unit for the past four years.

Family and friends may call 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, May 9, 2025, at Lane Family Funeral Home-Mineral Ridge Chapel, with services immediately following.

(special notice)