Lillie Rose Stanback loved both teaching and learning and returned to college and obtained a Master of Education degree from Antioch College in 1976.

Lillie continued to teach elementary school in Philadelphia for over 30 years. In 1990, she received a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and the City of Philadelphia for her years of dedication to teaching elementary school. Lillie retired as a schoolteacher after 35 years in 1995.

Stanback died on Jan. 5. She was 79.

Stanback was born on Feb. 3, 1932, in Durham County, N.C., as the second child born to Ollie Stanback and Addie Mae Wall. She spent her formative years in the Durham–Rockingham, N.C. area and graduated from Rockingham High School.

Stanback attended Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1953, and obtained her certification to teach English. Shortly thereafter, she relocated to Philadelphia, where she obtained her teaching certificate and taught in the schools.

Although she retired from teaching, Stanback was not finished contributing and making the world a better place. In her hometown of Rockingham, N.C., Stanback was known for her interest in the communities and its citizens. Her generous donations and support of the Piney Grove–Galestown Community Center, Piney Grove AME Zion Church, New Silver Grove AME Zion Church, Walls Chapel AME Zion Church and Mt. Sinai Baptist Church were unparalleled. In addition to her interests in North Carolina, she contributed to many charitable organizations including the World Wildlife Federation, UNICEF and the United Spinal Association.

Stanback leaves to mourn sister, Dorethea Stanback Shuler and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held on Jan. 28, at Slater Funeral Home.

Condolences may be sent to 5749 Haddington Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19131. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to Bennett College in Stanback’s name.