Llani Sue O'Connor, a woman whose spirit was as vibrant and adventurous as the life she embraced, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026, at Windsor Manor. Born on October 5, 1942, Llani lived a remarkable life dedicated to creativity, curiosity, and compassion. Her motto, "embrace life and find your color," was not just a phrase but a guiding light that illuminated her path through every chapter of her journey.

Llani's intellectual pursuits and love of learning were evident from an early age. She graduated from high school in La Porte, Indiana, in 1960, earned a bachelor's degree from Indiana State University, and later achieved a Master’s of Executive Management from Northwestern University. With these strong educational foundations, she forged a successful career marked by her work in magazine publishing and editing before also finding fulfillment as a real estate professional.

Her passion for the arts was boundless. Llani was an accomplished piano player and took great joy in serving as a museum docent at three different art museums, where she shared her knowledge and enthusiasm with countless visitors. She cherished the theatre, especially Broadway productions, and harbored a deep admiration for Shakespeare and historical figures like Queen Elizabeth I. A voracious reader, she immersed herself in history and non-fiction, feeding her inquisitive mind.

Llani’s heart beat with a fierce commitment to justice and equality. She was actively involved in defending civil rights and social justice causes, embodying her belief in a fair and compassionate world. Her adventurous spirit extended to travel, as she delighted in exploring both near and distant destinations, each trip enriching her understanding of the world and its diverse cultures. Fashion was another passion that allowed her to express her vibrant personality and creativity.

Llani has always been active in her local churches, most recently finding a home with the First United Methodist Church in Nevada, Iowa.

She is survived by a loving family that brought joy and warmth to her life: her sister Sarah Sentman of Charleston, WV; her sister Nancy (Dan) Hobt of Nevada; her brother Dr. Larry (Dr. Mimi Jacobs) Cripe of Indianapolis; her sister Melissa (Jim) Hahn of St. Joseph, MI; and her brothers-in-law, John Lanie and Jerry Preuss. She also treasured her nieces and nephews—Matthew (Ryan) Preuss, Jennifer (Frank) Fabianski, Jason (Alison) Lanie, Christopher (Kathy) Hobt, Meghan (Daniel) Eddy, Katherine Boller, Natalie (Matthew) Vegter, Lawrence (Chris) Cripe, Millicent Cripe, Amanda (Chris) Craig, Jamie (Dan) Kavanagh, and Samantha Schultz—as well as 21 great-nieces and nephews who carry forward her legacy of love and adventure. Llani is also survived by many dear friends who were woven into the tapestry of her life.

Llani was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Robert Dean and Helen (Saunders) Cripe, as well as her sisters Roberta “Berdee” Lanie and Meri Ellen Preuss and her nephew, Brian Lanie.

A Graveside Service will be held on June 5, 2026, at Evergreen Memorial Gardens in Nevada, Iowa, beginning at 2:00 PM. On June 28, 2026, a Celebration of Life will be held at Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home & Crematory in Nevada, Iowa, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, providing a welcoming space for all who loved Llani to share stories, laughter, and tears in honor of her extraordinary life.

Llani Sue O'Connor’s life was a vivid tapestry woven with courage, creativity, and boundless enthusiasm. She taught all who knew her the power of embracing life fully and finding the color within themselves. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a guiding light, inspiring others to live boldly and compassionately.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Llani’s name to the ACLU.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada has been entrusted with caring for Llani and her arrangements. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com.