Dr. Julia Armendaríz Tirres peacefully left this world on April 25, 2024, lovingly surrounded by her family.

Julia was born in Doña Ana County, N.M., April 5, 1937, to parents Rayo and Hermelinda Armendaríz. Julia married Carlos Tirres, a member of the United States Air Force in 1954.

In 1969, Julia made Tullahoma, her home. While raising three children, she engaged in numerous volunteer activities and achieved educational goals. She gave to the community by being a troop leader with the Cumberland Valley Girl Scouts, a mentor at the Highland Rim School for Girls, a member of the Tullahoma Junior Women’s Club, and a member of the AEDC Women’s Club, where she was honored as military wife of the year. Always dedicated to learning, Julia earned her Associate of Arts degree from Motlow State Community College, Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees from Middle Tennessee State University, and a doctorate in Education from Tennessee State University. In 1978, she began her career as an educator, inspiring students for over 30 years.

Julia shared her rich Mexican culture with students and friends through food, music, and dancing. Alongside her husband Carlos, she enthusiastically explored the world embracing every adventure. She nurtured her love of literature with participation in several book clubs, discussing literature in both Spanish and English. Julia will be remembered by her family and friends for her warm, loving heart, her buoyant spirit, her generosity, her sense of humor, her zest for life and her caring nature. A devout member of the Holy Family Catholic Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, Julia’s faith was central to her life.

Julia is survived by her husband, Carlos Tirres; son, Carlos Tirres, Jr.; daughters, Teresa and Lizet Tirres; brothers, Manuél and Jorge Armendariz; daughters-in-law, Margie Tirres and Kristina Beres; four grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be at Holy Family Catholic Church, 9100 Crockett Road, Brentwood on Friday, May 31 from 10 – 11 a.m. A mass will be held at 11 a.m. followed by a reception celebrating Julia’s life.

An online guestbook is available at AustinFuneralService.com 615-377-0775.

Tullahoma News – May 26, 2024