Elaine Lantz

Elaine Muntzing Lantz, 91, passed away on October 27, 2026, at VMRC, where she was a resident.

Mrs. Lantz was born on May 11, 1935, in Harrisonburg, VA, to the late Ernest Edward and Margaret Rhodes Early Muntzing. Elaine was a passionate advocate for children, working as a guidance counselor in the Baltimore public school system for over 40 years. In addition to counseling Elaine spearheaded the Grange Elementary chess club that spurred implementation of city-wide chess programs in the Baltimore Public School system. A lifelong Christian, Elaine was also an avid rose gardener, adventurer, and consummate reader of thriller novels.

In 1954, she married Joseph D. “J.D.” Lantz, who preceded her in death on November 10, 2002.

Elaine is survived by her daughter, Angela Lantz Smith; sister, Eleanor Jean; grandchildren, Courtney Elaine, Natalie Irene, Allison Marie, Madeline Margaret Lindsey; and great-grandchildren, Anya Marie, Kylie Irean, Cadyn James Lance, Elio Zeno.

In addition to her husband and parents, Elaine was preceded in death by her brother, Early Muntzing.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Linville Creek Church of the Brethren with Chaplain Carmen Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Elaine’s life at 4:00 p.m. at White Oak Lavender Farm.