Toowoomba farewells Lillian, passing peacefully at 106

THE Toowoomba region has lost one of its oldest former residents, with great-great grandmother Lillian Reimers passing away peacefully on Christmas Eve.

MISSED: Lillian Reimers celebrates her 105th birthday at Riverview Gardens. The former Toowoomba region woman died peacefully on Christmas Eve, aged 106. Picture: Kate Czerny

THE Toowoomba region has lost one of its oldest former residents, with great-great grandmother Lillian Reimers passing away peacefully on Christmas Eve, aged 106.

As they planned her funeral this week, Mrs Reimers' children reflected on the life of a much-loved and respected matriarch, who gave them an upbringing they'll remember fondly.

Lillian May Reimers was born in the small town of Meringandan, north of Toowoomba, on August 11, 1909.

Meringandan played a big part in Lillian's life, even after she left the Toowoomba area for Ipswich with husband Harold in the 1940s.

One of 13 children, Lillian's family will remember her as a strong-willed, no-nonsense country woman.

Youngest son Geoffrey said Lillian was a good mother who was somewhat strict, but always fair.

"We had a happy up-bringing and she provided very well for us during the war years," Mr Reimers said.

Lillian and Harold moved to Goodna in 1947, raising children Bryan, Valerie, Helen and Geoffrey.

"She was very active in her community," Mr Reimers said.

"She was on the school P&C, played tennis and represented Ipswich at one point."

Eldest son Bryan could attest to his mother's prowess on the court.

"She was a great player, the old girl," he said.

"She could rip the ears off me."

Lillian and Harold lived happily together in the same house in Albert St until Harold passed away in 1996.

Lillian moved to Riverview Gardens the following year, spending her final years there.

A memorial service will be held at Centenary Gardens on Wednesday at noon.

Originally published as Toowoomba farewells Lillian, passing peacefully at 106