Obituary of Lillian Eva Anderson

June 24, 1924 – June 29, 2017

“I’m ready for the next adventure!” 

Lillian Anderson was born June 24, 1924 in Phillipsburg, NJ to Hazel Eckhardt and Arthur Thompson.  She spent most of her grammar school years in Pennsylvania and New York, eventually settling in Southern California.  In junior high, she had rheumatic fever, causing damaged heart valves.  This condition greatly affected the course of her life but never kept her from doing the things she felt were most important.

Lillian married Elmer Samuel Anderson in March 1943.  They became the parents of Thomas, Terry and Ellen.  During the war, Lillian and “Andy” were stationed all over the West and the Pacific with memorable times in the Panama Canal Zone, where they made many lifelong friends.  They lived in Daly City (CA), Renton (WA), Cupertino (CA), San Jose (CA), Highland (UT), and Cedar Hills (UT).

Lillian joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1949 after learning about the promise of eternal families, which became central to all she did for the rest of her life.  When Ellen was born with severe disabilities, Lillian dedicated herself to Ellen.  All who knew Lillian testify that there was no better mother anywhere and Lillian often expressed how grateful she was for this special blessing.

Lillian was active in the LDS Church, serving in all organizations and also in the Mt. Timpanogos LDS Temple.  She served on the board of the Mental Retardation Association of Utah, and was active in the Provo Ladies Club for many years.  She was a lifelong learner, loved to read, to participate in family activities, and was a great party hostess!  She spent her last weeks sharing her wisdom with her family and friends, passing away peacefully at home on June 29, 2017.

Survived by children, Thomas David Anderson, Terry Elmer Anderson (Laurie), and Ellen Ann Anderson; 7 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; sister Anna Jordan.  Preceded in death by husband, Elmer Samuel “Andy” Anderson; her parents, and brother Arthur.

Special thanks to Dr. Eric Carter, Shauna Wahlcott, the caregivers from Harmony Home Health Hospice, and dear friends and family who assisted in her last days.

Funeral services will be held Friday July 7, 2017 at 11:00 am in the Cedar Hills 7th Ward, 737 Chesterfield Drive, Cedar Hills, UT.  A Viewing will be held Thursday, July 6, from 6-8 PM Anderson & Sons Lone Peak Chapel; 6141 West 11000 North, Highland, UT and Friday at the church from 9:45 – 10:45 AM.