Lanora was born in Waltreak, Scott County in Arkansas. She was the eldest child to William Estil Williams and Alie Merle (Bottoms) Williams. Lanora loved school but failed 1st grade due to being out sick too much. The family moved to California when she was six. She attended Orange Cove Elementary for grades 3-8. After spending her freshman and sophomore years at Reedley High School, the family moved to Springfield, Oregon. Lanora graduated 17th in her class in 1953. She enrolled at the University of Oregon while working and graduated with a BA in Education.

One of Lanora's college jobs was working as a waitress at Hull's Café. She met Rodney Slanga who became a frequent patron of the café.  The two were married on July 25, 1958. Lanora started teaching 5th grade in Harrisburg, Oregon. Lanora and Rodney moved to Honolulu, Hawaii for (shortly after it gained statehood). Following Rod's career, they moved to Plainfield, Vermont where Lanora began teaching 6th grade in Barre, Vermont. Son, Todd Alan, was born in Barre in 1967. Lanora returned to work after a while and taught 3rd grade for several years. The family returned to Oregon and moved around a bit before buying a house in Albany, Oregon. During her son's grade school years, Lanora worked as a teacher aide and substitute teacher.

At age 50, Lanora returned to college at Linn-Benton Community College. She graduated with an Associate degree in bookkeeping. Lanora worked as a bookkeeper for almost 13 years at Linn-Co Federal Credit Union before retiring in 2002. She was delighted in being a grandmother and spending time doing her hobbies. She had many interests including crocheting and writing patterns, scrapbooking, attending movies and concerts, eating out at restaurants, and a variety of word puzzle games. Notably, she was a formidable Scrabble player. In addition, she enjoyed quilling paper art and genealogy.

Lanora passed away peacefully of natural causes while comfortable and content in her own home. Predeceased loved ones include her parents, infant child Eric, husband Rodney, brother Donald Lee Williams, and sister Dessie Nell Williams.  She is survived by son Todd and his wife Catherine of Albany, brother Roger Dale Williams of Sweet Home, Oregon, her two granddaughters Emily and Abigail, and one great-grandchild, Natalie.

If asked, Lanora would say that she was not a good cook, but her loved ones disagree. She was the perfect mix of kind, funny, and practical. She was educated, clever, thoughtful, and had a very dry sense of humor. Lanora would write poetry for her family for special occasions.  She will be missed dearly.

In her own words, Lanora stated she was "not a party person." Respecting her wishes, there will not be a funeral service. In lieu of flowers, friends and family could donate to Meals on Wheels in Albany.