Obituary of Lora Carter Neale

Our beloved Lora Carter Neale, age 70, was called to our Heavenly Father on Monday, July 3, 2023.  She passed peacefully in her home and is now able to rejoice in the company of cherished family and friends that went before her.

Lora was born on February 13, 1953, in Lincoln, Illinois, the daughter of John and Audrey (Laun) Tomlin.  She married David Carter on November 10, 1973.  She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.  Lora is survived by her daughters, Lindsay Bauersachs (Derrek) and Dana Hanss (Stephen); her treasured grandchildren, Grayson Bauersachs, Lincoln Bauersachs, Audrey Hanss, and Baby Girl Hanss on the way; her sister, Joy Morales (Joe); brother, Randy Tomlin; her niece, Christa Morales, as well as many loving friends and extended family members.

Lora graduated from Greenview High School in Greenview, Illinois before attending Western Illinois University where she earned her Bachelor of Arts, studying Special Education and Elementary Education.  True to her nature, she worked diligently and graduated in just over two years and moved to Sherman, Illinois with her husband, David.  Lora began her teaching career at Sangamon Area Special Education, and transitioned to Sherman Elementary School in 1980 where she taught and touched the lives of countless second and fourth grade students, until her well-earned retirement in 2008.  Lora then moved to Round Rock, Texas, to be closer to her daughters and sister.  She continued to serve in the classroom, first as a substitute teacher, and later as a reader and volunteer in her grandsons’ classrooms.  Lora’s passion for education and teaching was ever-present, and has been an inspiration to so many others over the years.

Lora loved her family fiercely, always putting them first and taking every opportunity available to dote on them.  She gave with her whole heart, never asked for anything in return, and was a loyal lifelong friend to so many.  Always graceful and never boastful, she was an example of true beauty both inside and out.  Whether coaching her daughters’ cheerleading squads, volunteering at the Sherman United Methodist Church where she was a member, or just out shopping or enjoying a concert or lunch with friends, Lora was always smiling and appreciating every moment.  She always appreciated her roots in Illinois—the farming community, the small town life, and the values she was raised on and held so high.  She also had beaming pride for her Texas home—the bluebonnets, the Texas Longhorns, and ideal retirement life.  Nothing, though, brought a greater smile to her face than her grandchildren, whom she cherished so dearly.  The strength, courage, and determination Lora showed throughout her life was awe-inspiring, and she has made her family and friends eternally proud. Lora will be missed greatly, but the impact she had on so many will live on in love forever.

Lora’s family is very appreciative of the prayers, kind words of encouragement, and support received since her passing.

Memorial Gathering: 

10:00 am – 11:00 am, Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Greenview United Church, 111 S. Blaine Street, Greenview, IL.

Memorial Service: 

11:00 am, Saturday, July 22, 2023, also at Greenview United Church 

All are welcome to join for a church luncheon immediately afterward at the Greenview Masonic Lodge, 

Burial will follow at Richmond Grove Cemetery near New Holland, Co Rd 1800 N, New Holland, IL

Memorial contributions may be made to Greenview United Church by mailing directly to the church or the American Cancer Society in Lora’s name.