Lillian Irma (Stewart) Lange, a beloved teacher, devoted mother, and steadfast woman of faith, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on June 23, 1933, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, Lillian was the cherished daughter of John and Lillian Bauer Stewart. Her faith journey began early, having been baptized on July 9, 1933, and confirming her faith on July 14, 1946. Lillian's life was a testament to her deep commitment to education and her unwavering faith. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Tulane University in 1954 and furthered her dedication to teaching by earning her Lutheran Teacher Diploma from Concordia Teachers College in River Forest, IL, in 1957. Her career as a Lutheran school teacher spanned over four decades, during which she touched countless lives.
She began her teaching journey at Gethsemane Lutheran in Chalmette, LA, and continued to serve at various schools including St. Paul Lutheran in Harlingen, TX; St. John Lutheran in Corpus Christi, TX; Sacred Heart Catholic in Corpus Christi, TX; and Our Redeemer Lutheran North School in Houston, TX.
On June 20, 1958, Lillian married the love of her life, Raymond H. Lange, with whom she raised three wonderful children. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and music. Lillian's talents extended beyond teaching; she was an active participant in women's groups, choirs, and often lent her musical talents by playing the piano and organ at many congregations.
Lillian's legacy is carried on by her surviving children: Marie (Ross) Thomas of Gardner, KS; Paul (Joelene) Lange of Waterloo, IA; and Rebecca (Timothy) Kollmorgen of Goshen, OH. She was a proud grandmother to 12 grandchildren and a great-grandmother to 11 great-grandchildren, each of whom she cherished deeply.
In her retirement, Lillian continued to be an active member of her church, Hope Lutheran in Shawnee, KS, where she found joy and fellowship in a knitting group. Her nimble fingers created warmth for many, as she knitted hats for the homeless until her final days. Lillian's hobbies of knitting and crocheting were expressions of her love and care for others.
Lillian was predeceased by her loving parents, her husband Raymond, and her dear daughter Judith Rene Lange. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and faith that will be remembered by all who knew her. Lillian will be remembered as a great teacher, both in the classroom and in everyday life, embodying her beliefs through daily devotions and prayer. Her faithful witness and nurturing spirit made an indelible impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Hope Lutheran Church in Shawnee, KS reflecting her lifelong commitment to giving and serving others.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 11:00 am at Hope Lutheran Church in Shawnee, KS. Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday from 10:00 am until the time of services to share stories, lift one another in remembrance, and celebrate the life of Lillian. A luncheon will be provided after the service. Lillian will be buried next to her husband Raymond in the Houston National Cemetery in Houston, TX.May her soul rest in eternal peace, as she is now reunited with her Lord and loved ones who have gone before her.