Lilias Antoinette Folan, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and pioneering yoga teacher who introduced millions of Americans to the practice through her groundbreaking public television series, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, at the age of 90. Born Lilias Antoinette Moon on January 13, 1936, she became a household name as the host of "Lilias, Yoga and You," earning her the affectionate title of "First Lady of Yoga."

Folan's journey into yoga began in 1964, prompted by a doctor's suggestion to alleviate various ailments. What started as a personal quest for well-being soon blossomed into a profound spiritual search and a calling to share the transformative power of yoga with others. She began teaching at the YWCA in Stamford, Connecticut, laying the foundation for a career that would profoundly impact American health and wellness.

In 1970, after moving to Cincinnati with her husband, Bob Folan, her vision of accessible yoga came to fruition with the debut of "Lilias, Yoga and You" on local PBS affiliate WCET. The show's gentle approach, easy-to-follow instructions, and Folan's warm, magnetic personality resonated deeply with viewers. By 1973, the series was nationally syndicated across PBS, running for an impressive 29 years until 1999 and reaching nearly 190 stations at its peak.

Through her television program, Lilias Folan demystified yoga, making it approachable and relevant to a mainstream audience at a time when the practice was largely considered countercultural. She emphasized that yoga was not a religion but a way of living, integrating spiritual aspiration with daily life. Her influence extended beyond the screen through her authorship of several books, including "Lilias, Yoga and You" and "Yoga Gets Better with Age."

Beyond her public persona, Lilias was a devoted family woman, cherished by her husband, Bob Folan, who passed away in 2018, and their two sons, Michael and Matthew. She was also a proud and loving grandmother to seven grandchildren. Her commitment to teaching continued for decades, leading workshops and retreats, notably at the Feathered Pipe Ranch for 25 years, where she pioneered women's retreats.

Lilias Folan's legacy is one of profound service, heart, and an unwavering dedication to helping others find strength, balance, and inner peace. She was recognized as a Yoga Alliance certified teacher and lauded by publications like Time magazine, which called her the "Julia Child of Yoga." Her gentle voice and compassionate presence made the world healthier, calmer, and more connected, leaving an indelible mark on generations.