Julie has been a proud resident of Naugatuck for many years. Originally from Waterbury, she graduated from Crosby High School. While raising her three children, she returned to school in her forties, balancing her studies with her work as a paraprofessional at Naugatuck High School. She earned a Liberal Arts degree from Mattatuck Community College before continuing her education at Southern Connecticut State University, where she obtained a Bachelor's degree in History and Social Sciences. She later added a certification to teach English.

Since retiring, Julie has enjoyed giving back to her community through various organizations in both Waterbury and Naugatuck. She is an active member of the Leadership Council at OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute) at UConn Waterbury, where she arranges speakers for the Friday Café Hour. A member of OLLI for 14 years, she finds the most joy in working in the OLLI garden, where members grow vegetables to donate to local soup kitchens and food pantries. Every Tuesday, she delivers fresh, homegrown produce to the Naugatuck Ecumenical Food Bank.

Julie is also a dedicated member of the Naugatuck Exchange Club, currently celebrating her 20th year with the organization. Over the years, she has served as president, secretary, and a longtime board member.

As a member of the Naugatuck Historical Society’s board and a museum volunteer, Julie enjoys welcoming visitors as a docent at the historic Tuttle House on Saturdays. She loves being surrounded by the rich history of her town and sharing it with others.

Additionally, Julie is involved with the Naugatuck Garden Club, where she has served on the Civic Committee for the past few years. Alongside a fellow volunteer, she tends to the large Civil War Monument on the Naugatuck Green, ensuring that the space remains beautifully maintained.

On Sunday evenings, Julie takes to the airwaves as the co-host of a Rock ‘n’ Roll Oldies show on WATR in Waterbury, a role she has enjoyed for the past 20 years.

Above all, Julie takes the greatest pride in being a mother to her three children- Michelle LaFevre-Bernt of Novato, California, Carl LaFevre of Naugatuck, and Christine Colella Montague of Prospect.