Lila Mae Thor

Lila Mae Thor, 88, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, at Fairhaven Christian Retirement Center.

Lila was born on September 13, 1937, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Nolan and Della Barnes. She married the love of her life, Braden Thor, on Valentine's Day in 1966, beginning a marriage that would span 54 years and be filled with shared adventures, devotion to family, and faithful partnership. Throughout their years together, Lila faithfully accompanied Braden in many of his interests and travels, attending train shows, enjoying fishing trips, and sharing the simple joys of life together.

Lila's greatest joy was her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who treasured time spent with her grandchildren and watching the family grow through the generations.

She was a longtime and devoted member of First Evangelical Free Church of Rockford, where she served as a deaconess and sang in the church choir. Her faith in Jesus Christ was an important part of her life and a steady foundation throughout the years.

Lila is survived by her sons, Brian (Kristyn) Thor and Mark Thor; her grandchildren, Benjamin (Kalynn) Thor, Joshua (Karla) Thor, and Sarah (Matthew) Songaila; and her four great-grandchildren, Laney, Shepherd, Josie, and Evangeline, with two more great-grandchildren expected soon. She is also survived by her sister, Myrna Swanson.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Braden Thor; her parents, Nolan and Della Barnes; and her granddaughter, Jessica Thor.

Lila will be remembered for her quiet faith, her devotion to her family, and the many memories she leaves behind with those who loved her.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026 at First Free Rockford, 2223 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford with Pastor Chuck Rife officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Burial in Arlington Memorial Park. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.olsonfh.com.