It is with both profound sadness and immense gratitude that we announce the peaceful passing of Lois May Royce (née Stanfield) on December 20, 2025, at the remarkable age of 95.

Lois was a woman of extraordinary spirit and unwavering grace. Her infectious humor, boundless generosity, thoughtful consideration, and deep-seated kindness touched countless lives. She lived a life defined by an unshakable Christian faith in God Almighty and our Savior Jesus, a faith that was her constant compass and source of strength. She possessed a unique gift for genuinely connecting with and caring for people, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Her life was a testament to resilience, dedication, and lifelong learning. After devotedly raising six children, Lois embarked on a new chapter, returning to college at the age of 43. This remarkable determination led her to a fulfilling career at the Lane County Circuit Court, where she served diligently for 23 years, retiring at 73. Her professional life was as impactful as her personal one, demonstrating that it's never too late to pursue new ambitions.

Lois embodied many cherished roles throughout her long life. She was an amazing daughter, a supportive sister, a loving wife, a dedicated mother, and a doting grandmother. For me, Renee, she was more than just a mother; she was my truest confidante and my very best friend, sharing a bond that transcended generations and life's challenges.

Despite enduring significant personal losses, including the passing of her beloved husband and three of her children before her, Lois met each challenge with grace and an enduring capacity for love. Her heart remained open, always expanding to embrace those around her.

She is survived by her loving daughters, Renee and Robin, and her devoted son, Jon; her dear brother, Robert, and sister, Bobbie. Her legacy continues through her 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, with the joyful anticipation of more to come. Lois cherished every member of her extensive family, and her love for us all was immeasurable.

In remembrance of Lois, and as a poignant insight into her profound spirit, we would like to share a reflection penned by her son, Jon, on the very night she passed. This memory recounts a deeply moving event or vision she experienced shortly after the birth of her first child, offering a glimpse into the depth of her early maternal journey and spiritual life.

To allow for safe travel the family is planning a Celebration of Life in the Spring of 2026. 

The Crimson Ticket

“All Aboard, all aboard” Voice of the Conductor

As she wakes to the sound of click clack of the train

the familiarity of the ride brings back memories of long ago

when as a young girl she rode this very train

to station far above where a brother and sister met her with love

the visit was way too short

and with them telling her she couldn’t yet stay

back to her family she did go

then later a family of her own, first one then two now three

kids granted from the throne but that was not all

three more to come, making it six in her flock

as time rolled on with life’s twists and turns

her selfless sacrifice of love and caring always shown through

yes poor times, hard times and more, but good always mixed in

always giving for kids in her care

denying her own wants and desires to make sure

her kids had more, giving up her dreams for theirs

now time has run under that bridge

her children have all grown up

with families and stories of their own

yet still she sacrifices for each and ever one

a caring heart, a prayer on her lips

time travels on and on

then one day

laying in that bed, with darkness closing in

she hears a distant familiar sound.....faint and far

growing closer and closer...the sound of that train of so long ago

now she’s ready now she’s complete and anxious to board

as the train pull up and stops right before her

the Conductor steps out saying “Ticket, please”

in her hand a Crimson ticket she hands to the man

“oh, oh Such a special ticket do you have, only given to a precious few” he says

“ A ticket given to you because of your love and decision of heart”

he continued “ Your heart was mine and you chose my way”

“ I heard your prayers and answered many during your life”

“ No more pain, nor lack of anything...just My Love bound around you”

as he turns to the train he shouts

“All aboard, all aboard....this trains traveling non-stop to forevermore”

now taking her by her hand, to help her on to the train he turns with a gleam in his eye

“by the way your brother’s and sisters, husband, daughters and son

and so many others are waiting for you at station”

as she embraces the Conductor and he guides her to her seat

the train whistle blows and the clickity clack of tracks

sings the Conductor’s song of grace

“All Aboard we’re bound for forevermore”