J Julie Patton Currie, of Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania, passed away suddenly on December 19, 2025, at the age of 78. She was born on June 22, 1947, in Buffalo, New York, to the late James “Jimmy” Patton and Dorothy (née Sparberg) Patton.

Julie attended the Park School in Buffalo, New York, where her love of learning began. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Doctorate of Education from the University of Pennsylvania and later received her Juris Doctor degree from Villanova University School of Law.

Julie devoted her professional life to education, law, and public service. She began her career as an educator at Germantown Friends School teaching anthropology and psychology and founded their early childhood education program. Later, she served as an Assistant District Attorney for the City of Philadelphia for 13 years. Julie also worked in private law firms focusing her time on White Collar Crime cases after leaving the DA’s office. She later taught as a professor at Temple University and Chestnut Hill College in their Criminal Justice programs, heading their internship programs, where she was admired for her intellect, mentorship, and commitment to her students.

She is survived by her husband of 22 years, John (“Jack”) Heidenry. She was a devoted mother to Michelle Currie Viall (Frank “Jamie” Viall III) of Lafayette Hill, stepdaughter Kimberly McMakin (Sean McMakin) of Glenside, and her beloved grandchildren - Mairead McMakin, Nola McMakin, Frank “James” Viall IV, and Owen Viall.

Julie enjoyed cooking, her two book groups – one of which she has been a part of for over 30 years, attending the movies or going to the theatre, cycling, playing tennis, skiing, and delicious food at some of her favorite restaurants. She was a huge Philadelphia sports fan (especially when playing well). Her favorite destination was Chatham, Massachusetts, a place that brought her great peace and happiness. 

In retirement, she kept busy volunteering and sitting on committees for many organizations such as a member and greeter at Mishkam Shalom, board member of Why Not Prosper, former member of the Women’s Connection Transition Network of Philadelphia, member of Germantown Cricket Club, and also, pro bono work for the Senior Law Center, specifically focusing on grandparents raising grandchildren. 

On Sunday, December 28, the family will hold a visitation from 10 to 11 AM, with a Jewish service starting at 11 AM at George Washington Memorial Park 80 Stenton Avenue, Plymouth Meeting, PA. Shiva will be held on Sunday, December 28 (1:00 PM to 6:00 PM) and Monday, December 29 (1:00 PM to 6:00 PM) at 4059 Westaway Drive, Lafayette Hill, PA. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Julie’s memory to the following charities: Why Not Prosper (www.why-not-prosper.org), the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) (www.ndss.org), and the Montgomery County Interest Group of PA (MCDSIG) (www.mcdsig.org), reflecting the causes that mattered most to her.

Julie Patton Currie will be remembered for her dedication to education and justice, her sharp mind, and her deep love for family.