Julie A. Thimas

Julie A. (Hollis) Thimas, 91, of Taunton passed away on Monday, August 10, 2026 at home with her family by her side. The family was able to enjoy the blessing of her presence at home as she transitioned to be with the Lord.

Born in Boston, the 2nd oldest of nine children, she was the daughter of the late Coleman and Catherine (Rickey) Hollis. She was educated in Middleboro Public Schools and after high school graduation, went on to Nursing School and training at Cape Cod Hospital. She then worked for several years at various hospitals including Boston City Hospital, Tobey Hospital in Wareham, MA, Taunton State Hospital and Marion Manor in Taunton, MA.

In 1973, Julie purchased a former nursing home in Taunton, MA and became the first black woman business owner  in the city. As the owner of the Thimas’ Rest Home, she operated a residential foster care home where she spent over 30 years caring for numerous veterans and others in need.

Julie was a Christian and a long-time member of the Baptist Church of All Nations (BCAN) in Taunton. She loved singing in the choir and was faithful in supporting the church in whatever way she could. She always held onto her faith, reading her Bible throughout the difficulties in life. Despite the busyness of her life, she always attended worship service on Sundays, and many may recall her bringing “Jim and Bill” (two gentlemen in her care) with her to service for many years. She loved them both dearly as they were part of the family.

Aside from her relationship with God, the most important thing in her life was having her children around her and enjoying time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lovingly referred to as “Grammy”, she leaves a lasting impression on each of them through her example of strength and perseverance.

Julie was the former wife of the late Benjamin P. Thimas. She is survived by her three loving children, Kevin M. Thimas and his life partner Denise DeJesus, Marcia J. (Thimas) Richardson and Benjamin P. Thimas, Jr. and his wife Michelle, all of Taunton. Julie also leaves a brother, Coleman Hollis, Jr. of Inglewood, CA. Additionally, she is survived by her grandchildren Naomi Lonergan of Plymouth, Deidra DeJesus of Taunton, Carmen Richardson of Brockton, Kevin DeJesus of Lynnfield, Malik Richardson of Taunton, Taijon Thimas of Taunton and Christopher Silva of Attleboro. Also, great-grandchildren Liam and Madison Lonergan of Plymouth, Justice Lima of Taunton, Titus Leonard of Taunton and London Araujo of Taunton. Julia is also survived by several nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a time of visitation on Monday, August 17, 2026, from 4-7pm in the Silva Funeral Home at 80 Broadway (at Saint Mary’s Square) Taunton. Additional parking with handicap access is located on the North side of the funeral home.

Homegoing Service will be at Baptist Church of All Nations, 61 Winthrop St., Taunton on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, beginning at 10am. Relatives and friends may meet directly at church at 9:30am.

Burial will follow in the Mayflower Hill Cemetery, Taunton.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations can be made to the Baptist Church of All Nations’ Benevolence Fund. This fund exists to help others that are in need, which was Julie’s life-long mission. She would tell her children many times throughout their lives “you’re not here for yourself; you are here to help others”.

For expressions of sympathy, to sign an online guestbook, to plant a tree in her memory or to light a memorial candle, visit www.silvafuneralhome.com