Julius "OJ" James Shoulderblade

Julius “OJ” Shoulderblade, of Billings, MT, passed away unexpectedly in the comfort of his home, on July 29, 2022, at the age of 37.

Julius was born in May of 1985, to Dawnley Trujillo and Titus Shoulderblade Sr., of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe in Big Horn County. Julius met his best friend, Kyle Allen, in the Fourth Grade and their bond became a brotherhood. He was readily accepted with open arms as a member of the Allen family, moving in at the age of 15. He graduated from Billings Senior High School in 2004. While in school he actively participated in football and wrestling. Upon graduation, Julius enlisted in the United States Army, where he served his country for six years, completing two tours in Iraq. While in the Army, he received two Army Commendation Medals and a Good Conduct Medal. He was also promoted to Specialist Julius Shoulderblade. After retiring from the Army, Julius received his Associate’s degree, in Drafting and Design Technology, from ITT Technical Institute. In 2013, while living in Denver, CO, he met Kasey. He routinely visited her place of work in order to get to know her, she soon fell in love with his loving and caring nature. Julius, Kasey and her daughter, Luna, soon became a family, traveling together across the United States, moving as far as the East Coast and back again. In 2015 and 2017 respectively, Julius and Kasey, welcomed their two beautiful sons, Elijah and Malachi, to the world.

Julius was a devoted father, loving husband, son and brother. He enjoyed fishing, getting his hands dirty with some carpentry work, traveling, and experiencing new things. He absolutely loved movies, especially comedies, often quoting Dumb and Dumber, Joe Dirt and Step Brothers “Maaa, the meatloaf”! He loved meeting new people, helping strangers, and was considered family by everyone that was close to him. Julius was an avid member of his indigenous heritage ceremony group. Here is where he often volunteered and donated his time, learning to adhere to the principles of helping those less fortunate. Julius felt closest to his creator during his time spent at the Mesa, in Naturita, CO, where his primary passion was building Hogans. Julius will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all who knew him.

Julius is survived by his wife, Kasey; their children, Luna, Elijah and Malachi; parents, Jim and Janice; and siblings, Billy Jo, Julia, Titus, Anthony, Isaac, Jordan, Scott and Isabella Shoulderblade; Jessica, Chris and Robert Pine; and Kelly, Corey, Kyle and Kimberly Allen. He is predeceased by his mother, Dawnley; father, Titus; sister, Jessica; and his favorite Aunt Valerie.

A Vigil and Sharing Service is scheduled at Dahl Funeral Home in Billings, MT, 10 Yellowstone Ave, on Friday, August 5th at 7:00 PM. Please bring special stories and beloved memories to share about Julius. A Funeral Service is scheduled at Mary Queen of Peace in Billings, MT, 3411 3rd Ave South, on Saturday, August 6th at 10:00 AM, reception to follow. Flowers, donations, and condolences may be offered at Dahl Funeral Home.