Lillian Judith Gordon

Lillian was born on May 8, 1946 to Lithuanian immigrants David and Fanny Shaw of Vancouver British Columbia . She came to live in California as a teenager and graduated from Hamilton High School in Los Angeles. She met David Gordon on a blind date and they were married November 5, 1967. They had 2 children Darryl and Lila.

Lillian was known amongst family and friends as a spitfire livening the room with her spirit, good humor and hospitality.

She enjoyed adventures including: nature hikes, day trips and taking walks up mysterious paths including ones with signs that read “Private.” These might have been her favorite because she was a self admitting ‘rascal’( and proud of it).

Judaism was a large part of her life and herself. She drew strength from the traditions, holidays and from Torah. Being a Torah teacher at Beth Shalom of Whittier for many years was not only a joy to her but it fueled her spirit. She marveled at the wisdom of Torah and loved sharing it.

Jewish prayers and songs gave her great comfort all her life and especially during her illness. Even on her last week , she tried to open her eyes when lightening the Shabbat candles.

Lillian loved people and was a good friend, a staple on Breezewood Drive, sharing fruit from her trees and giving words of support when needed.

She had many interests and jobs and was devoted to her garden. However, being a mother and building a family was most important to her, and she was exceptional at it. She put her whole self into her family from working hard to prepare the best meals ( at one time she was known for her cakes until her husband said he was gaining too much weight) to finding the best schools, to driving her kids across town and to extracurricular activities. All of this from her own initiative and based on her ideal of what a mother could and should be.

Lillian is survived by her daughter Lila who feels so proud to be raised by such a strong and loving mother.