Lillian Sprague

Lillian was born on Jan 29, 1921, in Madera California. She was preceded in death by her parents Pasquele and Gulia Mariani and her husband of 51 years Raymond L. Sprague Sr.

She is survived her brother Emilo Romeo Mariani and his wife Nancy, daughter Lori and husband Chris Boom, and son Raymond Sprague Jr. and wife Debra. Lillian had 10 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.

Lillian graduated from Madera High school and Business College in Fresno. Early in her career she worked for the selective service (draft board) and then joined the ARMY in 1943. She was stationed at Drake University in Des Moines Iowa, and attended ARMY Administration school in Commerce, Texas also attending Medical Corps at Ft. Leavenworth Kansas. Lillian did some interpretation work for the Army as she could converse in 7 different languages. She met her husband at Ft. Leavenworth and they were married in 1944.

After retiring from 30 years with the Federal Civil Service, she donated her time and wisdom in many ways and causes. As a WWII veteran she was a member of the American Legion Post 264 serving in many capacities to include president. Also she was an active member of the Native Daughters of the Golden West, St. Joseph Catholic Church altar society and Lincoln Women’s Club and the VFW Auxiliary.

Lillian Volunteered at the Carnegie Library and served on the Library board, she volunteered for Roseville Hospice Thrift Store, Sutter VNA and Hospice of Sacramento, helping and assisting hospice care for Lincoln patients, and also at the Lincoln Salt Mine. At that, time along with those volunteer hours, she was a clerk at her daughter’s business office.

Lillian went beyond the call of duty, serving beyond all capacity whether in auxiliary or charity. She volunteered her assistance with her knowledge and wisdom even at 95 years old helping others much younger than herself. After two surgeries in one month, she was unable to continue her volunteerism.

Lillian set the bar high as an example of giving of yourself to help others. Her hope was that she motived future generations to give back to the community where they live.

Visitation will be held at Lincoln Funeral Home from 3-6pm on Thursday, August 31st with a rosary following from 6-7pm. Full Mass to be held at St. Joseph’s in Lincoln, California on Friday September 1st at 10:30am, with a reception to follow.