Julia B. Preston - Obituary

ulia Preston a lifelong spiritual seeker, was that rarity who took seriously her love of family, friends and a dedication to service, but did not take herself seriously. Julia was born March 13, 1939 in Philadelphia, PA to the late Mary Innes and George McNeely Belsterling. She attended Lower Merion High School and graduated from Endicott College in 1959. After graduation, Julia moved to Washington, DC to work for the CIA as an administrative assistant. She met her first husband, John Harold Coffey, Jr. on a blind date in 1960; they married a year later on September 16, 1961 and had one daughter, Kristin. Though the marriage ended, they remained friendly. Julia married twice more, both times to Louis F. Baum, Sr. Julia had a long and varied career. She first re-entered the workforce after being a stay-at-home mom for several years, starting as a secretarial floater for a law firm, now known as Aaron Fox Schiff. Julia worked her way up to become AFS’ Personnel Manager which was an impressive feat for a woman in the 1960s. Thereafter, she spent most of her professional life in sales. She sold everything from funeral pre-arrangements and life insurance to luxury lifestyle accessories. Julia retired from the men’s department at Nordstrom‘s Annapolis location. Her job at Nordstrom checked all of the boxes on her exceedingly specific list of requirements for acceptable places to work (specifically: beautiful environment, high standard of service, calm atmosphere, easily amenable customers, no take-home work and live piano music). She won sales awards and was recognized an “All Star” by the company. On a spiritual path and as a lifelong learner, Julia made deep dives into the metaphysical. She was a trained facilitator at The Institute for the Advancement of Service (formerly Institute of Attitudinal Healing), volunteering for many years in Old Town, Alexandria. She used her insights and writing skills to self publish two inspirational books: “Amusings” and “Voices in my Head.” In her later years, Julia dedicated her time to help heal the planet by working and writing in evolving metaphysical circles. Known for her wry sense of humor, easy laugh, and charmingly delightful manner, Julia immediately put those around her at ease. Self-effacing, she found joy in the mundane as well as awe, wonder and gratitude for the good in life. Diagnosed with triple threat cancer, she faced her last chapter with courage, calm and curiosity about “this next new adventure”! Julia died on November 12, 2024 exactly as she had planned. She was comfortably at home, beautifully tended to by her daughter, Kristin, all the while receiving visits from numerous friends and family who came to say their goodbyes…Just as she wished it to be. Julia is survived by her daughter, Kristin Coffey Zeender; three granddaughters, Katarina Heidi Zeender, Annelise Julia Zeender and Brigitta Zeender Pachucki (Colin); her sister, Betsy Jordan (Jack); her beloved nieces and nephews, Julia Edelson (Greg), Connie Jordan-Haas and John Jordan (Shannon) and seven great nieces and nephews and two great great nephews. Julia was predeceased by her parents and sister, Jean Innes Belsterling. A private Celebration of Life is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, anyone interested in contributing in Julia‘s honor, might consider St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or the ASPCA.