Celebration of Life
Obituary of Julie Rigsby Oyen
March 24, 2026 • Katonah, New York
Julie Rigsby Oyen, 57, passed away on March 24, 2026, at her home in Katonah, New York. Surrounded by her beloved family, she was far too young when she was taken by the cancer she courageously fought since 2013.
Born in Longview, TX, Julie made a life with her husband, Greg, in New York for over 25 years. When she and her family moved to Katonah 19 years ago, she quickly became a pillar in her community, finding friends and chosen family from all walks of life anywhere she went. Her smile truly lit up a room, and the effortless way she could connect with people was a testament to her kindness, warmth, and undeniable charm.
Anyone who knew Julie knew that her children were her deepest pride, and at the core of her service to others. Everything she did was an extension of her heart. She was the perfect picture of a selfless mother, wife, and friend—feeding anyone who needed a meal, inviting strangers into her home and heart, and constantly getting involved in organizations for the betterment of the community that she loved so much. She was the magic in all of her children’s childhoods, and put her all into giving them everything they could ever dream of, while still instilling in them the same ambition and tenacity that she carried herself with.
Julie was incredibly creative and just as humble, and was able to pick up any new hobby with immediate success. She was an outstanding cake decorator for years, and was behind so many peoples’ most memorable days (and desserts). She loved knitting, needlepointing, and other textile arts, and handmade countless pieces for her friends and family that will live on as a tribute to her commitment and love for them. She was always known for her green thumb, and curated beautiful gardens every year that flourished under her constant care. She raised chickens, ducks, and goats, and even learned to keep bees; all for her deep love of the beauty she found in nature.
Julie also found great pride in her work, and was a dutiful employee at Vita-Pakt (previously Byron A. Carlson) for the last decade. She quickly became an essential figure at Vita-Pakt and led her team for the Northeast division with dedication and compassion, forming personal connections with all of her coworkers, whom she called friends. She was incredibly thankful for the opportunities and resources that her job provided for her and her family.
Julie is survived by her sister, Stacy Conner, of Longview, TX, her husband, Greg Oyen, and her children, Lily (24), Lucas (19), and Violet (17)—as well as all of those she loved so dearly that she considered her family. She was incredibly proud of her children, who are a clear reflection of her values and qualities. Julie will be remembered for the selflessness, creativity, ambition, and strength she carried herself with every day.
A service to celebrate Julie’s life will be held on Saturday, April 4th at 11:00 AM at the Bedford Community Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either organization:
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation:
OR
The Cancer Research Institute: https://fundraise.cancerresearch.org/fundraiser/7120417
