Lasting Memories

Elinor "Lolly" Osborne
Dec. 9, 1940-March 6, 2026
Palo Alto, California

Lolly Osborne, born Elinor Louise Fasani, passed away peacefully at home on March 6, 2026, surrounded by her three children — Ryan Osborne (Jenette), Kristi Osborne Spector (Dan), and Jani Osborne (Tilio) — and her loyal companion, Vader. She was 85 years young. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas L Osborne, in March 2021 after a wonderful 57 years of fun.

Born on December 9, 1940, in San Francisco, Lolly spent most of her life in Palo Alto after moving there at the age of nine. Over the decades, she built a remarkable legacy of family, friendship, and community.

Known lovingly as “YaYa” to her grandchildren (Kendall & Avery Spector, Luke, Spencer & Grant Osborne) Lolly never met a stranger and generously opened both her home and her heart to everyone around her. She could sew a quilt, build a fence, tile a bathroom, or create a wonderful meal completely from scratch — usually with a glass of wine or a trusty gin and tonic nearby.

A graduate of Palo Alto High School and San Jose State University, Lolly began her career as a kindergarten teacher before dedicating herself fully to her favorite role: Mom. She volunteered tirelessly through PTA, coaching soccer, and community organizations, and later found great joy traveling and hiking with her beloved Gourmet Ladies Backpacking Group. She was also active in the Palo Alto Women's Club and cherished her weekly gatherings with dear friends for dominoes, games, laughter, and conversation.

Lake Tahoe was her second home and happiest place — filled with skiing, hiking, lake swims, porch cocktails, and treasured family memories at the cabin.

Lolly lived a life full of love, adventure, laughter, and an extraordinary ability to bring people together. She leaves behind her children (Ryan & Jenette, Kristi & Dan, Jani & Tilio), grandchildren (Kendall, Avery, Luke, Spencer, Grant), extended family, and countless dear friends whose lives were brighter because of her warmth, humor, generosity, and adventurous spirit.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and joyfully remembered.