Cloudy Jewel

the long version

Julia Cloud lived her life in service to others. She cared for sick neighbors and relatives, including her mother during her last 5 bedridden years of life. After her mother's death, life looked dreary and gray indeed. A brother had died during the war and her other siblings had married and started families of their own. Julia's sister, Mrs. Robinson, and her husband were planning to 'give' Julia a place to live, provided she helped with housework and the children, thus saving the Robinsons the cost of a maid or housekeeper. Weary of her sister's continual critical attitude and sharp words, Julia, unwilling to subject herself to this, began to think about what She wanted to do. An unexpected telegram from her orphaned niece and nephew opened up the possibility of life as their chaperone as they moved into their college years. A visit with the children a number of years prior established a warm relationship with them and resulted in their affectionate nickname for Julia of Cloudy Jewel. Julia's gentle and loving spirit gave the children the loving home they yearned for, and guidance in spiritual things. The impact they had on their college and community was truly of the Lord.