Julie Ann Hyten, 62, of Topeka, KS passed away Saturday, August 18, 2018 at her home at Sunflower Supports. She was born December 5, 1955 in Wichita, KS. Julie was raised and loved by her foster parents, Robert Lee and Norma (Rumold) Britton of Soldier, KS.

Julie finished her trainable classes, earning many certificates. She worked with TARC in Topeka; enjoying her job at Courtyard by Marriott. Julie was a member of Central Park Christian Church in Topeka.

From the age of 18, Julie was active with TARC, Sheltered Living and Sunflower Supports. She was best known for her independence and strong will. She lived by the saying “I did it my way”. Some called her a “firecracker”. Julie would often tell her support staff that it was her job to give them a hard time.

Julie was proud of her achievements at work and in Special Olympics. She loved Special Olympics Swimming and Track. She excelled in running events.

She had a strong passion for music. She loved to sing and dance and was part of a Square Dance group for many years. She often had two TVs and 3 radios playing in her apartment so there was always something to sing and dance to. Her favorite TV shows were the Lifetime Channel, Channel 13 News and Weather, The Price Is Right, soap operas and The Golden Girls.

Julie had an outgoing personality. She was a good friend to many with friendships that lasted her lifetime. She was a sweet and caring; with a gentle touch. She loved her family, remembering them with flowers or cards for special occasions. She was so proud to give fuzzy posters that she colored to those she cared about. Julie always loved puppies and loved to have them snuggle in bed with her.

Survivors include her foster mother, Norma Britton of Holton, KS; a foster sister, Shirley A. Smith of Holton, KS and her many extended “family” at Sunflower Supports and TARC.

She was preceded in death by her foster father, Robert Britton.

Celebration of Life will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 8, 2018 at Sunflower Supports 2521 SW 37th, Topeka. Private inurnment will be in the Soldier Cemetery. Memorials may be given to TARC c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.