Julianne McGraw Adams

Julianne “Julie” McGraw Adams, 83, of Aiken, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on November 15, 2025.

Julie was born on July 25, 1942, in Micro, North Carolina, to Lynwood Harrison McGraw and Ruth Jane Gaddy. She grew up with a love of learning and creativity that would shape her life’s work. Julie graduated from Brenau College, where she prepared for a career devoted to education and the arts.

Julie began her career as an elementary school teacher. During this time, she met her husband, Tommy. After many years in the classroom, Julie transitioned her talents into the world of design, founding Julie Adams Interiors, where her keen eye and artistic sensibility transformed homes and spaces for many years.

Never content to stop growing creatively, Julie later redirected her artistic gifts toward fine art. She opened a small studio in downtown Aiken, where she taught art classes and inspired countless students to see the world differently. Her work earned her recognition as a well-known regional artist, admired for both her talent and her generosity as a teacher and mentor. Julie also served as vice president of the Aiken Student Club, reflecting her deep commitment to community and education.

Julie is survived by her two sons, Roy (Chip) Thomas Adams III and his wife, Abbey, and their son, Robinson, of Charleston, South Carolina; and Benjamin King Adams, of Aiken, South Carolina. She is also survived by her sister, Sissy M. Ruffe, of Coral Gables, Florida, and her brother, George “Bubba” Mehallis, of Inverness, Florida.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Banksia on: Friday, February 6th 4 - 6 P.M. 433 Newberry Street SW, Aiken, South Carolina 29801

Julie’s life was a testament to creativity, curiosity, and the belief that art and education have the power to transform lives.

          “Drawing is not what one sees, but what one can make others see.”

          — Edgar Degas