Tributes and Memorials

The tributes below honor individuals who have contributed so much to so many. To purchase a Friends of La Leche League tribute to honor an individual who has inspired you, please go to the Tributes page.

Honoring Marian Tompson, Evanston, Illinois USA
“Marian cannot be honored too many times. She is an amazing woman. We all owe her so much.”
From Rebecca Magalhaes, Neponset, Illinois USA
December 29 2025 – December 29 2026

In memory of Mary J. Hoskin, Tolland, Connecticut USA
“I enjoyed Mary’s enthusiastic and friendly approach to Leadership.”
From Judith Gubala, Rocky Hill, Connecticut USA
December 5 2025 – December 5 2026

In memory of Dr. Ruth Lawrence, Rochester, New York USA
“In memory of Dr. Ruth Lawrence, a pioneer in the lactation world.”
From Carroll Beckham, Beaufort, North Carolina USA
October 14 2025 – October 14 2026

In memory of Rosetta Bartels, Kansas, USA
“Rosetta was an active Kansas LLL Leader of 50 years and LLL Communication Skills Instructor/Trainer of 35 years. For me she was a legend, nurturing her family and sharing her talents far and wide. She will be deeply missed.
One of Rosetta’s favorite quotes:
‘Dialogue requires that we be willing to suspend memory, desire, and assumptions. And exist, if only for a moment, for the other person.’ – William Isaacs.”
From Rebecca Keepers, Yukon, Oklahoma USA
July 7 2025 – July 7 2026

In memory of Connie Chiavario, Sandwich, Illinois USA
“Connie (8/8/58 – 6/7/25), a tireless advocate for mothers and babies, served as a La Leche Leader for nearly 40 years. In 2000, she earned her certification as an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and began her professional career at Rush Copley Medical Center for the next 23 years. Her deep passion for holistic care, for mothers and babies, left a lasting impact on countless families. Connie’s legacy will live on through her friends and family, and she will be dearly missed.”
From Rush Copley Medical Center, Aurora, Illinois USA
June 21 2025 – June 21 2026

In memory of Carolyn Joan Meyer, Tucson, Arizona USA
“In memory of Carolyn Joan Meyer — long time LLL Leader and Friend of LLL from Tucson; a very dear friend of mine and many other League women.”
From Judie Ellison, Heltonville, Indiana USA and Jean Blackmore, McFarland, Wisconsin USA
May 3 2025 – May 3 2026

Honoring La Leche League Leaders, Anywhere, Everywhere
“My tribute extends to all La Leche League Leaders, both past and present. La Leche League encompasses a unique sisterhood of service, enriching those giving as much as those receiving, with both the giver and the receiver often continuing to reap the benefits in unexpected moments decades later. Thank you.”
From Carol Bollin, Bowen, Illinois USA
November 26 2024 – November 26 2025

Honoring Anne Hutton, Houston, Texas USA
“Anne, your skills, attention to detail, expertise, and dedication never fail to impress me. Thank you for all you do.”
From Evy Simon, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA
November 13 2024 – November 13 2025

Honoring Nancy Stanton, Coral Springs, Florida USA
“My life has been deeply influenced by LLL. My mom, Nancy Stanton, was the first LLL Leader in the state of Florida and served on the LLLI Board. Her example lives in me today, and I honor her incredible example of mothering through breastfeeding.”
From Leah Aldridge, Atlanta, Georgia USA
November 11 2024 – November 11 2025

Honoring Nancy Thompsen Sherwood, Aldie, Virginia USA
“For her kind and generous heart.”
From Randee Kaitcer, Fort Worth, Texas USA
July 24 2024 – July 24 2025