JoAnn Lillich

JoAnn Lillich, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, librarian, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and community.

JoAnn was born on January 24, 1946, in McCook, Nebraska, to Lyle F. Bedford and Helen A. Bedford. She attended Washburn University, Emporia State University and the University of Kansas where she studied business administration.

On June 9, 1968, JoAnn married the love of her life, Keith Lillich, in Danforth Chapel at the University of Kansas. Together they shared a loving marriage built on faith, friendship, and devotion to family.

JoAnn devoted herself to her family as a homemaker and later an elementary school librarian with compassion and dedication. She had a gift for encouraging young minds and creating welcoming spaces where others felt valued and cared for. She found joy in cooking, crafting, playing cards, and forming meaningful connections with everyone she met. She had a deep appreciation for Lakota history and culture, spending countless hours learning, teaching, and sharing that knowledge with others. Her curiosity, generosity, and desire to bring people together left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Those who knew JoAnn will remember her for her kind heart, generous nature, dependable character, and joyful outlook on life. She had a remarkable ability to listen, offer encouragement, and make others feel at home. Her greatest happiness came from spending time with her family and the many friends whose lives she touched.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Keith Lillich; her parents, Lyle F. Bedford and Helen A. Bedford; her sister, Dorothy Benge; and her brother, Bill Gallagher.

She is survived by her son, Colter W. Lillich; her daughter, Carol Lanay Lillich Zepelin, and son-in-law, Noah Zepelin; her cherished granddaughter, Talia Zepelin; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

JoAnn's life was a beautiful example of love, service, and generosity. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and caring heart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

We will be having an informal gathering for people to pay their respects on August 10th.