Born at home on July 4, 1971, Julie was the first child of Frank and Patty Hitchcock.

Her brother Philip arrived when Julie was two years old and although they had lived miles from each other for the past few years, they have always maintained a close bond between siblings.

She went to school in Pickering and had a passion for animals and especially horseback riding, got her first pony, Star at the age of 11, and participated in local shows and events.

After leaving school, Julie’s first job was in a bank before deciding to go to college to study teacher training.

Julie’s family said: “Her first teaching position was at Amotherby Primary School and she was an enthusiastic teacher loved by many. It was a happy time in her professional life.”

She then became Deputy Principal of East Ayton School and most recently Julie worked at Lady Lumley School in Pickering.

Julie met her husband Marc in 2002 and they married in 2005, made their home in Scalby and had two children, Robert and Sophie.

In 2010, they decided to return to Pickering to be closer to his parents.

Here the family said: “Happy years followed with the children, enjoying many vacations in their caravan and also abroad.

“Julie loved music and loved to dance, she always dressed well and was the life and soul of a gathering.

She was a devoted mom who loved dearly and always put her family first.

“Julie was the parent who organized little ones, boy scouts, brownies, guides, soccer, cricket and judo for Robert and Sophie to have fun.

“She was adored and loved and always will be.

They added: “Julie will live forever in our ears and be remembered as the funny and beautiful woman whose infectious smile and love for life and happiness touched everyone.

“The love for his family leaves us with so many memories.”

A funeral service for Julie was held at St. Peter & St. Paul Church, Pickering on Tuesday November 9th.