Laura Lynn (Sommer) Lanham

Springfield

Laura Lynn Lanham, 66, of Springfield, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at the Villas Senior Care Community East in Sherman, Illinois.

She was born on June 23, 1959, in Springfield, to Raymond Paul and Norma Lee (Ryan) Sommer.

Laura is survived by her son, Matthew Toenjes; daughter, Lindsie Rhodes and son-in-law, Nicholas “Nick” Rhodes; granddaughter, Elise Rhodes; and grandson, William “Liam” Rhodes. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Theresa (Sommer) and David “Dave” Law; brothers and sister-in-law, Steven “Steve” and Dianne Sommer, and Charles “Chuck” and Lori Sommer; plus several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Brian Sommer and sister, Beth Sommer.

Laura cherished simple joys in life, including watching the ferry cross the river with her late husband, Joseph “Joe” Lanham, enjoying episodes of Little House on the Prairie with her late sister Beth, and spending meaningful time with her brothers and sisters, children, and grandchildren.

Laura donated her body to Southern Illinois University Carbondale School of Medicine. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville assisted the family with arrangements. For more information, visit rigginpillatschburkefh.com.

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