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Julius Andrew Schwartz Jr., affectionately know as “Shorty” or “Jewels,” surrounded by his loving family and friends, made his way home after a courageous battle with cancer Tuesday evening, Jan. 17, 2023.
Julius was born first of five children to Laura Nell Bible Schwartz and Julius Andrew Schwartz Sr. in Georgetown on Oct. 5, 1947. When he was young, the family moved to Elgin, where he attended Elgin schools and graduated with the Class of ’66. After graduation, he worked for various companies in and around Elgin and then started his own business as a heavy equipment mechanic, which he worked for many years until he retired in 2016. In the late 60s, he met a pretty young lady named Norma Lynn Chafin. After dating for two years, the couple married in August of 1967. In 1969, they welcomed their first born, Jay, followed by Billy in ’72, and then Laura in ’76.
Julius was an active Mason, serving as grand master of the Elgin Masonic Lodge. He was an active member of the Elgin Volunteer Fire Department for over thirty years and served as E.S.D. commissioner for a few years. Aside from his civic commitments, he found enjoyment deer hunting and turkey shoots. In his younger years, he loved to ride his Harley and dirt bikes. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, whom he loved dearly.
Julius was preceded in death by both his parents; his brother, Robert Schwartz; and his infant granddaughter, Kaitlyn Schwartz.
Julius is survived by his beloved wife of over 55 years, Norma Lynn Schwartz; his son, Jay Schwartz III and his wife, Lynnet, of Paige; his son, Billy Schwartz and wife, Tonya, of Pflugerville; his daughter, Laura and husband, Marc Allen, of Elgin; his eight grandchildren, Vanessa and husband, Eric Hazlewood, Andy Schwartz IV and wife, Destiny, Gunnar Schwartz and wife, Chesney, Allison Barkley, Chase Barkley, Anjelica Valdez, Olivia Valdez and Marcellus Valdez; nine great-grandchildren and three on the way; his sister, Rosie and husband,Charlie Raney; his sister, Joan Schwartz; his brother, Henry Schwartz; and numerous extended family and dear friends who are considered family.
Family and friends gathered for visitation at Elgin Funeral Home Monday, Jan. 23, from 6 until 8 p.m. A celebration of Julius’ Life was conducted graveside at Youngs Prairie Cemetery Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 10 a.m. with Pastor Buddy Hyden presiding. After services at the cemetery, all were invited to repast and fellowship with the family at the Elgin Volunteer Fire Department.
Arrangements and care are entrusted to Elgin Funeral Home.
