Lila (Zeip) Brandes

Lila Brandes (née: Zeip) of St. Peters, Missouri, passed away on December 18, 2025 at the age of 95. She was the beloved wife of the late Charles E. Brandes; She is survived by her three children, Gary Brandes, Mary Lue (Kevin) Buescher, Don (Katy) Brandes; half-brother, Art Kendal; half-sister, Mary Ellen Vandebenberg; six grandchildren, Kyle Buescher, Tori (Joe Angiler) Buescher, Brian (Nicole) Bertke, Erin Brandes, Alan (Shelby) Brandes, Hank Brandes; great grandchildren, Kalei, Ethan, Dylan Bertke, Lila and Rosie Brandes; She is preceded in death by her father, Milton Zeip, mother, Helen Zeip (née: Lore), son, Charles L. Brandes, grandchild, Kacey Buescher and daughter-in-law Brenda Brandes (née: Martin).  

Lila was born to her mother, Ruby Pryor, and was later lovingly adopted by Milton and Helen Zeip.
On September 18, 1948, Lila married Charles, they celebrated over four decades until his passing in July, 1989. Together, they were blessed with four children: Charles Lee, Gary, Mary Lue, and Don.
Lila dedicated 38 years of service to the Wright City School District, where she made lasting contributions as both treasurer for the district and secretary to the high school principal. Her commitment to education and the community left a lasting mark on countless students and colleagues.
A woman of many talents, Lila was an amazing seamstress and quilter whose skillful hands, also, created beautiful crocheted and knitted afghans. She was a wonderful cook and baker, making every meal a special occasion. Christmas held a particularly special place in her heart, and she delighted in creating magical holiday memories for her family year after year.
Lila’s adventurous spirit took her on travels near and far, from cherished summer trips to the beach to exciting journeys out of the country. She found great fulfillment in volunteering at Immanuel United Church of Christ in Wright City, where she served faithfully in many different capacities.

Lila will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. 

In honor of Lila, memorials may be made to: Immanuel UCC Church, Wright City. In care of Pitman Funeral Home 1545 Wentzville Parkway, Wentzville Missouri 63385. 

Family is being served by Pitman Funeral Home, Wentzville. 
 

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