It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Julie Tingley, a cherished member of the Tampa community and a devoted advocate for those in need. Julie’s unexpected death has left a deep hole in the hearts of all who knew her, and her loss is being felt across the local nonprofit landscape where she made such a significant impact. Julie, the heart and soul behind Wee Macree, was an embodiment of kindness, compassion, and unwavering support for her community. She was 45 years old.
Julie’s passing is not only a loss to her family and friends but also to the countless individuals and organizations whose lives she touched with her generosity, dedication, and spirit. Her work with Wee Macree, an organization dedicated to empowering families and creating connections, became her life’s mission. The organization, under her leadership, touched the lives of so many families in the Tampa Bay area, creating a network of love and support that will continue in her honor.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Julie Tingley was not just a mother, a wife, or a friend—she was a tireless force for good. She poured her heart into the work she did with Wee Macree and beyond. Her passion for helping others was evident in everything she did, whether it was organizing events, offering guidance to families, or lending a listening ear. Julie’s presence in the community was both a source of strength and a beacon of light, inspiring all who encountered her.
Her deep commitment to service began early in life, and it only grew stronger as she found her calling in nonprofit work. As the founder of Wee Macree, Julie’s ability to connect with people was unparalleled. She built a team that was grounded in empathy and collaboration, and her leadership style was one that uplifted and empowered those around her. Julie knew that true change could only happen when people came together to support one another, and she led by example.
One of the hallmarks of Julie’s career was her deep understanding of the power of stories. In addition to her nonprofit work, Julie had an incredible gift for writing and storytelling. She used her voice to raise awareness about issues that mattered to her, and she was a staunch advocate for children and families facing challenges. She was especially proud of the article she wrote for Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine, where she shared the story of Taylor, a child she had grown close to through her work with local nonprofits, including the TayK Foundation. Julie’s ability to write with such care, kindness, and empathy resonated with many, leaving a lasting impression on those who read her words.
A Lasting Impact on the TayK Foundation
Julie’s work with the TayK Foundation is one of the many ways she left her mark on the world. Early on in the foundation’s journey, Julie and the Wee Macree team played a pivotal role in offering support and insight, helping to shape the early days of the foundation’s mission. Julie’s generosity of spirit extended beyond her time at the helm of Wee Macree; she offered her time and heart to support other nonprofits, and it was in these efforts that she formed deep, meaningful connections with people who became like family.
Julie’s contribution to the TayK Foundation was more than just professional. Her personal involvement, including writing heartfelt pieces that touched on the core of the foundation’s mission, made a lasting impact on everyone involved. Her article about Taylor, published in Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine, not only raised awareness about the foundation’s cause but also showcased her ability to understand the struggles and triumphs of others. It was her way of spreading love and empathy to a broader audience, something she did in all aspects of her life.
A Community That Grieves Together
Julie’s loss is felt deeply by the entire Wee Macree community, who is now left with the task of carrying forward the vision and values she instilled in her organization. As a team, they will honor Julie’s memory by continuing the work that she was so passionate about. Her spirit will live on through the work she started, and through the lives of those she helped.
In times of such heartbreaking loss, it is important to remember the words Julie herself lived by—no one has to carry their grief alone. She dedicated much of her life to helping others find strength and solace in one another, and now, as we mourn her loss, we must heed her message. Julie’s legacy will live on through the love and empathy she inspired in others.
Condolences to the Tingley Family
To Julie’s beloved family, including her husband Ken and children Ella and Kate, our hearts break for you. There are no words that can adequately express the pain of losing a wife, a mother, and a sister. But please know that you do not have to carry this grief alone. The outpouring of love and support that has followed Julie’s passing is a testament to the profound impact she had on everyone she met. We stand with you in your sorrow and will continue to show up for you in the days ahead, as Julie so selflessly did for others.
Julie’s family was her greatest treasure. She often spoke with love and pride about her children, Ella and Kate, and her husband, Ken. Their support for her mission was unwavering, and Julie was always quick to acknowledge the importance of her home life in balancing the demands of her work. The Tingley family was always by her side, supporting her in every endeavor, just as she had always supported them.
To Ken, Ella, and Kate: We grieve alongside you and share in the sorrow of this immense loss. We promise to be there for you, just as Julie was there for so many of us, with love, compassion, and the strength of this incredible community she helped build.
A Community Remembers
As a community, we will carry forward Julie’s vision of empathy, connection, and service to others. We will continue to show up for one another, just as she would have wanted. Her impact on the Tampa Bay area and beyond will be felt for many years to come. From the work she did with Wee Macree to the countless lives she touched in her personal and professional life, Julie will always be remembered as a guiding light—someone who put others first, always, with a smile and a heart full of love.
Julie’s death is an unimaginable loss, but her legacy will endure. She will continue to inspire those who knew her to live lives of service, to always show kindness, and to offer support to those in need. Through the work of Wee Macree and the many other organizations she supported, her influence will live on.
Julie, you will be missed beyond measure. May your legacy be a reminder of the power of community, compassion, and love. Rest in peace, and thank you for all you gave to the world.
