Hi, I am so very sorry to hear about Grandma Lil, as I called her. I only recently was informed of her passing and was so sad to hear. From the age of 4, she took me on a yearly shopping trip in State College for school clothes. We had so much fun on those excursions and I loved going to her house for cookies and milk, or something yummy she had just baked. Our family spent a lot of time at the Brewers and I also lived with them at one point during my senior year of high school. I loved everything about her house--how clean and orderly it was, the good food, the lively company. It was just a haven for me in so many ways.

Grandma Lil also has some outrageously funny stories and we had so much fun "gossiping" about silly things. She definitely went to the beat of her own quirky drum and those who were lucky enough to know her would always get a good laugh talking with her. I never once referred to her just as Lil or Lillian. So Grandma Lil, you are missed and please know what a difference you made in my life, then, now and forever. Here are some pictures of our shopping trips over the years. --Jill Cordes

Vicki had been keeping me informed as Lillian declined. Hence, I was not surprised when she called with the news the day after Lillian had died. Nevertheless, it was a difficult day.

To me, she was "Grandma Lil". The reason for that name is she was the "Grandmother of Choice" to my four children, especially Jill, my oldest daughter. Grandma Lil (and Tom) played an especially important stabilizing role for my children--and for me, for that matter--when I was struggling and trying to do the best I could with all the responsibility of having sole custody of the children. I will never forget her/their kindness, friendship, empathy, and support. It is not an exaggeration to say I am not entirely sure if/how I would have managed during those difficult days had it not been for her/them.

My relationship with Grandma Lil spanned nearly fifty years. It was a bit more than three years ago when I returned to State College for the last time and I spent extended time with Grandma Lil at Juniper Village. We laughed, giggled, and shared stories, silliness, and remembrances for hours. Attached is a photo from that occasion.

She is a treasure who I will remember with great fondness and love until I take my last breath. Thank you for all that you gave me and my children...and Godspeed.