Lana L. Craig

She was born on November 27, 1946, in Jacksonville, Illinois, to Kenneth W. Twyford and Dorothy H. (Fernandes) Twyford. Raised on a farm near Carrollton, Illinois, Lana attended Greenfield schools through the eighth grade before moving to Springfield, where she graduated from Springfield High School in 1964 as part of the “Baby Boomer” class of over 500 students.

During her senior year of high school, Lana began working at Bell Telephone as a stenographer, beginning a lifelong path of dedication and hard work. In 1965, she married Robert E. Craig Jr. of Springfield, and they shared 27 years together.

Lana spent several years working with the State of Illinois Vocational Rehabilitation program, where she supported special education programs and made a meaningful difference in the lives of many. She later followed her passion for creativity and entrepreneurship by building and owning Craig’s Flowers in Chatham, Illinois, for 10 years. In her 40s, she embraced a new chapter, returning to Springfield to help found and co-own True Colors Flower Shop in Clock Tower Village. Her work as a floral designer brought beauty and joy to countless people.

Later in her career, Lana returned to a role of service, working with the Department of Specialized Care for Children through the University of Illinois Chicago until her retirement at age 64.

In her retirement years, Lana enjoyed a peaceful and artistic life in Palmyra, Illinois, surrounded by her family and many dear friends. She will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, and the warmth she brought into every room.

She is survived by her son, Matthew Craig; her daughter, Abbey (Kevin) Williams; and her cherished grandchildren, Joseph Craig, Jeff (Emily) Craig, Kort (Grace) Williams, Aaron, and Katie (Erik) Williams. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Sarah (Andy) Mize and Michael (Liz) Buckley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Dorothy Twyford, and her sister, Lynn (Twyford) Buckley.

Visitation will be held at Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 Koke Mill Road, on Thursday, April 2, 2026 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., with a short funeral service to follow at 6:00pm.

Lana’s life was defined by love, resilience, creativity, and care for others. She leaves behind a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew her.