Aunt Jee's obituary
Julia Alexander King, formerly known as Julia Alexander Rhoads, and also affectionately known as Aunt Jee to her family; of Margate, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at the age of 77, leaving behind a life rich with stories, adventure, and cherished memories.
Julia lived a full and vibrant life shaped by curiosity, independence, and an unmistakable sense of style. In her final days, she fondly reflected on her many years in her beloved longtime home at Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia, as well as her time living on the busy streets of New York City, where she embraced the energy and possibility of big-city life. She also called Juliet, Illinois, and later Jupiter, Florida, home at different chapters of her journey.
A pioneering businesswoman in Philadelphia, Julia built and led a successful legal placement firm, alongside her predeceased mother Donna Rhoads, during a time when women executives were still the exception. Her professional achievements earned her recognition in prominent publications and placed her among influential leaders and cultural figures of her era. She was respected not only for her business acumen, but for her confidence, intelligence, and ability to command a room with ease.
Beyond her professional life, Julia had a deep love for travel and adventure, exploring the world with friends and delighting in beautiful places, fine shopping, and life’s pleasures. Her appreciation for elegance, culture, and experience was woven into everything she did and remains one of her most enduring signatures.
Julia was also deeply devoted to her family. Though she had no children of her own, she poured her heart into her nieces and nephews: Jennifer Day, Alan Rhoads, and Dana Rhoads, as well as a later nephew in Caiden Rhoads, who were, in every meaningful way, her children in spirit. She delighted in spoiling them with unforgettable Christmases, encouraging summer camps, and taking them on trips to Philadelphia and New York City to experience theater and shows such as Blue Man Group, Lion King, and so many more. Through her generosity, she expanded their world and created memories that will last a lifetime.
Julia was preceded in death by her parents, Donna Mae Ward Rhoads and Lt. Col. William Henry Rhoads II, and her brothers Edward Rhoads and William “Billy” Rhoads III. She is survived by her brother Greg Rhoads, her beloved nieces and nephews, extended family, and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing her. She was the former wife of Larry King.
Julia will be remembered for her elegance, her adventurous spirit, and her ability to make life feel bigger, brighter, and more beautiful for those she loved.
A celebration of life and remembrance will be held by the family in Longport, New Jersey this summer.
If you would like to attend, please subscribe here: TinyURL.com/LifeofJuliaKing