Lois I Spizzirri

With hearts full of gratitude for a life so lovingly lived, we share the news of the passing of Lois I Spizzirri (nee Johnson), who departed this world on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at her home in Somonauk, Illinois, surrounded by her beloved family. Lois was born on August 26, 1937, in Chicago, Illinois, and in her 88 years, she became a cherished presence to all who knew her, a steadfast beacon of strength, kindness, and unselfish love.

To know Lois was to witness a life graced by devotion—to her family, her friends, her church, and her community. Her spirit is carried on most closely by her daughters, Cynthia (Lance) Olson, Valerie Spizzirri, and Anita (Merlin) Milligan, each of whom she treasured and nurtured with gentle guidance and pride. The legacy of Lois’ love continues through her grandchildren, Sarah (Robbie) Cutcliffe, Eric (Rory) Olson, Charles Juarez, Jr., Jeff Juarez, and Drew (Kylei) Milligan, whose lives are forever enriched by her wisdom and warmth. Lois’ reach extended even further to her great-grandchildren—Abby, Duke, Maeve, Olson, Wells, and Woodland—who will grow up with her stories woven into the fabric of their lives.

Though her passing is felt deeply, we find comfort in remembering those who welcomed her on the other side: her dear husband, Frank, her father, Arthur G. Johnson, her mother, Alice C. Johnson (nee Rhea), and her brother, Arthur G. Johnson, Jr. Their memories remain lovingly etched in the hearts of Lois and all who loved her.

Throughout her life, Lois’ hands and heart were never idle. For 37 remarkable years, she owned and operated The Paperback Encore in Sandwich, a haven for readers and dreamers. Her bookstore was more than a business—it was a gathering place and a source of joy for friends old and new. She also lovingly ran the book booth at the Sandwich Fair for 35 years, kindling the love of reading across generations.

Lois’ gifts shone just as brightly beyond her work. She was a woman of wide-ranging interests: an accomplished piano player, a passionate reader and knitter, an enthusiast for jigsaw puzzles, and an inveterate traveler who explored new horizons with her beloved Frank by boat and private plane. Lois found camaraderie and laughter in card games shared with friends and lent her beautiful voice to the church choir, enriching each gathering with her music.

Faith, service, and community formed the foundation of Lois’ life. She was a longstanding member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Somonauk and contributed to the congregation in profound ways—serving on the Church Council, the Worship and Music Committee, accompanying the choir, and attending LWR workdays. Lois gave generously of her time as a Girl Scout leader for several decades, planting seeds of confidence, compassion, and curiosity in countless young hearts. Her kindness also extended to serving as a Reading Buddy at church, ensuring a love of learning blossomed in even the youngest members of her community.

Those who carry Lois’ memory do so with reverence for her unwavering loyalty, her boundless creativity, and her unfailing sense of humor. Her graceful resilience, deep friendships, and loving heart shaped a family and community that will forever cherish her spirit.

Family, friends, and those touched by her presence are invited to gather and celebrate Lois’ extraordinary life on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Visitation will be held from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 235 South Green Street, Somonauk, Illinois, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM with Pastor Selena Blackwell officiating. Lois will be laid to rest at St John's Lutheran Cemetery, East 2351st Road, Somonauk. 

Memorials may be directed to St. John's Lutheran Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. For more information or to sign the online guestbook go to www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com 

We remember Lois not only for the multitude of things she did, but for the gracious and loving way she did them. Her light will continue to guide us all, tucked safely within our memories and hearts.

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home

13160 W. Rt 34 W ~ P.O. Box 404 

Somonauk, IL 60552 

815-498-2363