Lani Ravn

Lani was born on June 20, 1944, in Richmond, Virginia, the daughter of Alden Charles and Laura Beatrice (Davies) Ravn. She graduated from Jacksonville High School and later earned her bachelor’s degree from Shimer College. Lani dedicated 19 years of service to the Elm City Center in Jacksonville before retiring.

In 2012, Lani moved from Jacksonville to Springfield to be closer to her family—a decision rooted in love and devotion. She faithfully attended West Side Christian Church, valuing her faith while remaining content to live life quietly and independently, exactly on her own terms.

Lani had a deep love for animals and could almost always be found watching Animal Planet, especially her favorite show, Dr. Pol. She was an avid reader with a particular love for mystery thrillers and proudly owned nearly every Stephen King novel. Lani was also a gifted storyteller—her stories were unforgettable, often hilarious, sometimes shocking, and always told with passion and flair.

She enjoyed playing bridge at the Senior Center, treasured her time swimming laps at the YMCA, and was determined to stay active and independent for as long as possible. Even after a knee replacement and a serious femur fracture in 2020 that greatly impacted her mobility, Lani persevered—continuing to run her errands, attending church when she could, and remaining in her home with fierce determination.

Lani loved her cat, Stella, crossword puzzles, junk food, and Coca-Cola Classic—iced, always. Anyone who knew her knew to have Coke stocked and ready, especially for holidays. She was the queen of candy, and visits to Grandma Lani’s were filled with snacks, laughter, cats, and comfort. There was always a dish of jelly beans or M&Ms nearby.

Unapologetically herself, Lani was bold, snarky, loud, honest, and endlessly entertaining. She didn’t need a large circle of friends—family was everything. She grew up with deaf parents, an experience that shaped her deeply and gave her a unique perspective on life. She showed up fully for those she loved—never missing a holiday, birthday, or important moment. She was present, dependable, and steadfast.

Lani was a devoted mother who raised two incredible sons, a proud grandmother who adored her grandchildren, and a woman who loved her daughters-in-law as her own. She will be deeply missed, as will her laughter, her stories, and her unmistakable presence.

She was preceded in death by her biological parents; mother, Caroline “Tilly” Ravn; and nephew, David Ravn.

Lani is survived by her sons, Erik (Michelle) Fretz and Nathan (Morgan) Fretz; grandchildren Kevin (Vlada Gudzenko), Nikki (Adam) Coe, McKenna, Caleb, Loey, and Willow; great-grandchildren, Lyla and Amelia; brothers, Alan and Jeff Ravn; niece, Laura (Luke) Georgalas; and nephews, Brad (Amanda) Grady and Matt (Lili) Ravn.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

The family will host a celebration of Lani’s life on Saturday, February 21st, starting at 10:00 am at West Side Christian Church in Springfield. Family will receive friends and family at 10am with a service starting at 11:00 am. All guests may enter the building at The Hub entrance on the east side of the building facing Veterans.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. 6th Street.