Obituary of Lyla Willis
WILLIS: Lyla Ann Willis passed away peacefully with her family by her side at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on December 13, 2020 at the age of 62. Lyla was a caring wife, mother, grandma, sister, friend and nurse. Her family will honor her legacy by living their lives to the fullest.
Lyla was born in Virden, Manitoba on October 24, 1958. She was the second youngest of five children to Melbourne and Betty Studer. She spent her childhood helping out on the family farm and building strong relationships with her siblings.
Lyla enjoyed a busy social life with friends and classmates in her high school years and could be often found cruising the town or chatting in the bleachers at football games. She graduated from Virden Colligate in 1977. Lyla’s outgoing nature helped her make friends throughout her life.
She met her husband Lorne in Virden, MB and married in 1980. In 1981, they moved to Brandon, MB. From a young age Lyla aspired to work in the Health Care field and in 1982 she graduated from Assiniboine Community College as an LPN and began her nursing career.
Lyla and Lorne welcomed their first daughter Chelsey in 1983 followed by their second daughter Kara in 1985. There was no greater pleasure for Lyla then becoming a mother. The times she cherished most of all were with her family such as trips with Lorne and the girls and even just going out to dinner for special occasions.
Lyla worked at Fairview Nursing Home for over 23 years touching many lives. Lyla took a great deal of pride in her role caring for patients but also in her relationships with colleagues many of whom became great friends over the years. She sadly had to retire in 2014 when her eye sight deteriorated due to her diabetes.
Lyla was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as Grandma and spent much of her time and retirement playing with her grandson’s and watching them grow.
Lyla is survived by her beloved husband Lorne; her daughters Chelsey Willis (Jason) and Kara Hodgins (Brodie); her grandchildren Grayson and Caleb; her siblings Dale Studer, Marie Keown, Louise Innes (Martin) and Barb Studer; along with many nieces and nephews.
She is predeceased by her mother Betty Studer and father Melbourne Studer, sister-in law Elaine Studer, mother in-law Evelyn Willis and father in-law Jack Willis.
Lyla’s life would seem short to many, but those who were touched by her understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. Her gentle smile and compassionate heart brought so much joy to others.
The family would like to thank the pallbearers Robin Jay, Vaughn and Jeff Canada and Cliff Clisby.
A celebration of life was held at Brockie Donovan funeral service on December 18, 2020. Lyla’s family would like to thank everyone for their love, support and kind messages. Donations may be made in Lyla’s name to Diabetes Canada, 401-1 Wesley Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4C6.
The family invites you to watch the Celebration of Life for Lyla Willis. Please CLICK HERE
