Lillian Lowe Colby, born in 1920 to a farming family in Eagleville, Tennessee, was a visionary whose life was marked by service, intellectual curiosity, and a profound commitment to helping others.
Growing up in rural Tennessee, Lillian developed a strong work ethic and an appreciation for community – values she carried throughout her remarkable journey.
After earning her degree from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Lillian married Fred Colby of Signal Mountain, Tennessee. Fred worked with the Agricultural Extension Service at the University of Tennessee and shared her passion for education, nature, and community service. Together, they worked tirelessly to support agricultural development and youth initiatives, such as the 4-H club, across Tennessee. One of their most cherished projects was Camp Woodlee, a camp they founded in 1951 to provide youth with hands-on experiential learning in nature and build lifelong connections and relationships. Camp Woodlee provided, and continues to provide, young people with opportunities to celebrate local cultural traditions, music and dance, as well as enjoy the natural beauty of the rivers and woods of middle Tennessee, grounding their young lives in a deep appreciation for community, heritage and the environment.
Lillian’s career as a teacher at Thrasher Elementary School on Signal Mountain allowed her to inspire generations of children, instilling in them a love for learning and a sense of compassion for others. Lillian was a horseback rider, a square dancer, a piano player, and a gardener whose pursuits reflected her adventurous spirit and love for the natural world.
Her open-mindedness, particularly regarding matters of religion and cultural diversity, and keen interest in global cultures and people, set her apart as an educator who valued individuality and inclusivity.
Her love of music, from folk to classical, and her passion for travel brought vibrancy to her life. Lillian was a dedicated supporter of Chattanooga’s Sister City program with Wuxi, China, even sponsoring a young Chinese violinist’s education at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. These endeavors highlighted her generosity and her commitment to fostering global connections. An active member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, Wayside Presbyterian Church, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and numerous local clubs, Lillian’s influence extended throughout her community, enriching the lives of those with whom she worked.
When Lillian passed away on December 23, 2010, she ensured her lifelong dedication to helping those in need would continue through the establishment of the Lillian L. Colby Foundation. With a mission rooted in her unwavering compassion, the Foundation focuses on supporting causes that advance education and economic mobility with a special emphasis on the marginalized. This legacy reflects Lillian’s deep commitment to uplifting the most vulnerable and ensures her vision of care and service will continue to transform lives for generations to come.
Lillian Colby’s life was an extraordinary tapestry of compassion, adventure, and intellectual curiosity. She was a woman who bridged the past and future, blending traditional values with an open-mindedness and adventurous spirit that defined her as both a nurturer and a trailblazer.
