Lola Todd, a beloved mother, nana, teacher, and friend from Littleton, Colorado, passed away on September 16, 2026, at age 86. She will be remembered for the love, faith, and generosity she shared so freely throughout her life.

Lola was born in Pueblo, Colorado, on August 2, 1940, to Mayme and Charles Hitzing. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents.

A lifelong learner with a heart for children, Lola graduated from Pueblo County High School and attended the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education with an emphasis in elementary education. She was also a proud member of Sigma Kappa sorority. Later, she earned a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in Creative Arts in Learning, from Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

After completing her education, Lola poured her heart into raising her daughter, serving her community, and beginning the work with children that would become such a meaningful part of her life. At Littleton United Methodist Church, she taught Sunday school and supported the women’s ministries. She also served as a Girl Scout leader and volunteered in her daughter’s schools.

Lola devoted 28½ years to education, including 22 years in Douglas County. She taught kindergarten and second grade at Pine Lane Primary in Parker, as well as second grade at Eagle Ridge Elementary in Littleton and Summit View in Highlands Ranch. Helping young people discover their potential was one of her greatest joys. She was the teacher everyone wanted to have—Mrs. Todd! With patience, creativity, and genuine care, she helped students feel special, believe in themselves, and master the curriculum. She especially loved teaching reading and writing, and “Goof and Grow” was a phrase often heard in her classroom. During her career, she received numerous honors, including the Channel 9 Super Teacher Award, the Colorado Teacher’s Award, the Nova Award, and Douglas County’s Most Distinguished Teacher Award. She also served as president and a board member of the Colorado International Reading Association and was active in the Douglas County Reading Association.

After retiring, Lola continued to give generously of her time and heart to her community. She attended Littleton City Council meetings, participated in the South Park HOA, and cared devotedly for her neighbors. She especially treasured lunches with the neighborhood women known as the “Alley Cats.”

Her faith remained at the center of her life: she was an active member of Littleton United Methodist Church, Mountainview Church in Highlands Ranch and later South Fellowship in Littleton. She served as a prayer coordinator for Denver After Five Women’s Connection, and led women’s retreats and Bible studies through Stonecroft Ministries. Steadfast in her faith, Lola was a prayer warrior for everyone.

Even amid these many commitments, Lola lovingly oversaw the care of her mother, father, and a cousin in Pueblo. For many years, she also faithfully managed her childhood farm property.

One of Lola’s most cherished roles was being “Nana” to her two grandchildren. Loving, playful, and endlessly devoted, she filled her home with educational toys, hundreds of books, playhouses, dolls, cars, dress-up clothes, and more. Their many playdates and sleepovers created treasured memories of trips to Casa Bonita, parks, concerts, plays, and tea parties, along with feather beds and sleeping bags. She hoped to be remembered as the “Book Nana” who nurtured her grandchildren’s love of reading—but she could rarely resist cute clothes or the latest cool toy!

Lola leaves behind her daughter, Michelle (Richard Pond) of Denver; her granddaughter, Lindsey of Waco, Texas; and her grandson, Jarred of Englewood, each of whom will carry her love and memory forward.

Lola devoted her life to family, faith, friendship, and fostering young minds. Her warmth, compassion, and generous spirit touched everyone around her. Those who loved her will forever treasure their memories of her and will miss her dearly.

Lola’s family extends heartfelt thanks to Berkley Hospice and the incredible staff at Modena at Cherry Creek for the compassionate care and kindness they provided.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations to Lola’s favorite country church, Avondale United Methodist Church. Please mail donations to Avondale United Methodist Church, 233 US-50 BUS, Avondale, CO 81022, in care of Pastor Lola West, and note that the gift is in memory of Lola Todd.

A celebration of Lola’s life will be held at noon on Friday, November 20, 2026, at South Fellowship Church, 6560 S. Broadway, Littleton, CO 80121. The family invites guests to remain at the church for a reception following the service and to share memories of Lola’s remarkable life.

A second celebration of Lola’s life will be held in her hometown at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at Avondale United Methodist Church, 233 US-50 BUS, Avondale, CO 81022. A reception will follow.