Mildred Evelyn Lilly was born to Edgar Everett and Dixie (Bridges) Langmaid on Aug. 8, 1936, in Sapulpa, Okla. She was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers and a sister. She is survived by her children; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a sister, Mary Jo Nielsen of California.
Evelyn was a self-taught cook and seamstress. Throughout her years she worked as a chef at local restaurants, spent many years as the Echo School head cook, prepared and served meals to harvest crews, worked banquets along with catering fly- ins and other local events. She designed and made her children their school clothes, uniforms and wedding dresses. Square dance matching attire for her and her husband was her specialty. Evelyn was always willing to make a dress for her close friends, as well. Although the food industry consumed much of her life, many in Hermiston also knew her as the 0wner and operator of the “Almost New Shop” for 15 years.
Evelyn was the youngest of five children. She came to Oregon from Oklahoma with her widowed mother when she was 14 years old. While living with distant relatives, she and her mom found work at Saint Anthony’s hospital, thus establishing themselves as Oregonians.
Evelyn soon met and fell in love with Robert Earl Lilly also from Pendleton. She was 16 when they married in October 1952 and was dismissed from school due to the marriage. She later completed and obtained her GED. During their marriage of 62 years, Bob and Evelyn raised three daughters and welcomed into their family with opened arms their son-in-laws: Stan and Roberta McQuinn of Bend, Jim and Jo Dillon of Philomath and Tom and Patricia Logan of Kodiak, Alaska. Evelyn had eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren that are scattered throughout the United States.
Evelyn was first and foremost a wife and mother but she also found time to participate in many school and charity events. She was an active member of the Hermiston Eagles Club and the Stanfield Moose Lodge. For many years she was also an avid member of the local square dance club.
After retiring Evelyn filled her days with family, camping and “junkin.” She loved to shop and could be seen frequently at Goodwill, yard sales and local retail shops. She also remained busy, making desserts for her neighbors, cooking up surprises for her weekly pinochle group and playing poker with friends.
Evelyn was admired for her giving nature, loved by many and cherished by her family. She will be missed by all.
A private family gathering and service has been planned.
Please sign the online guest book at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
