Lillian Irene Young

Lillian Irene Young, age 86, passed away on July 29, 2024 in Temple, Texas. Mrs. Young was born Lillian Irene Tincher to Velma Lucille and Arthur Tincher on December 28,1937 in Prairie Grove, Arkansas. She graduated from high school in Fort Smith, Arkansas and soon thereafter met and married Billy Ray Young Sr., her beloved husband of 59 years, in Potoe, Oklahoma. The newlyweds were soon stationed in Chinon, France were their first-born child, Pamela Lynn, was born. After returning to the states, the couple settled in Killeen, Texas where their second child, Billy Ray Young Jr. was born.

Lillian then continued her education and received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from American Technological University. Lillian was hired in 1976, by Central Texas College, to work for the Central Texas Workforce Education Contract where she was a member of a group that provided counseling services to 32 area high school campuses. Lillian was promoted to Dean of Service Area Campuses for Central Texas College within the Adult Education Department where she serviced 13 cities in western Central Texas. She later advanced to the role of Dean of Institutional Effectiveness at Central Texas College, a position she was very proud of. She remained in this position until her retirement, after over 30 years of service to the Central Texas community. She was described as professional, respected, and loved by all. In addition to a successful career, Lillian also served as a member of the Rotary Club of Killeen for many years, where she held the office of President. Over the years, Lillian was also very active within her church community at Skyline Baptist Church in Killeen.

Aside from her professional and community service, Lillian found most of her joy within her family. Lillian, who was affectionately referred to as Irene or Aunt Rene by those who loved her, was a beloved mother, sister, aunt, and Mimi. Following the death of her husband, Billy Ray Sr. in 2017, Lillian spent the rest of her days surrounded by her family and loved ones.

She is survived by her two children, Pam (Bert) Bass of Belton, Texas and Billy Jr. (Tracie) Young of Killeen, Texas, her two brothers Steve Landis and Richard Landis, and brother-in-law Drew (Jennie) Young. She is also survived by her five grandchildren, Chance (Shelley) Riehl, Justin Bass, Megan (Michael) Stuckey, Tanner Young, Callee (Daryl) Dorman, and Bradley Young and five great-grandchildren, Jace, Truitt, Bennett, Owen, and Levi. Lillian is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, including Steve (Shearl) Johnson who she considered honorary members of the Young family.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Sodalis Senior Living in Temple, Mercy House of Temple, and New Century Hospice who provided excellent and loving care to Lillian in her final months.

A visitation will be held Sunday, August 4, 2024 from 5:00-7:00 PM at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen. Funeral services will be Monday, August 5, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home. A private family burial will follow services.