Obituary: Julia G. Coleman

**Maine Teacher and Travel Enthusiast Julia G. Coleman Dies at 86** Portland, Maine – Julia G. Coleman, a long‑time educator and avid traveler who spent more than a decade teaching history at Kennebunk High School, died on June 7, 2026, at her home in Portland. The 86‑year‑old was born in Easton, Pennsylvania, to the late Margaret Bickelhaupt and Francis Coleman. **A Life of Learning and Teaching** Coleman earned a high school diploma at Wilson High School in Easton before attending Harvard University and later the University of Miami. Her career in education began in Saco, Maine, where she taught history to generations of students in the Kennebunk area. She was noted for bringing history to life in the classroom, and many of her former students keep in touch with her after retirement. **A Passion for Travel** During a school vacation in the 1970s, Coleman took a class trip to Moscow while Russia was still part of the Soviet Union—a rare opportunity for American students at the time. She also spent many summers hiking through the Austrian Alps and regularly visited Italy to see friends and relatives. **Personal Interests and Pets** Coleman was an enthusiastic gardener, a dedicated cook, and an avid reader. She often kept rescued dogs and cats at her Saco residence. Friends remember her for her welcoming home and her love of animals. **Family and Friends** Julia is survived by her sister Susan Martin of Dover, New Hampshire, and her nephew Dennis “Chip” Martin of Portland. Her nieces, Judi Cyr of Charleston, South Carolina, and Melissa “Missy” Pollard of Newburyport, Massachusetts, also survived her. She was “old auntie” to Gavin Cyr, as well as to Samuel, Nate, and Laura Martin. **Memorial and Private Burial** Coleman’s burial will be private. Those wishing to leave a memory are encouraged to sign an online guest book at . In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Animal Rescue League of Greater Portland in her memory. ---