Lila A. Berry

Garner, NC - Lila A Berry died peacefully at home after a brief illness while living in Garner NC. She was surrounded by her loving family. Lila is pre-deceased by her husband, Henry Russell, her brother, Joseph S Berry Jr., her sister Beverly Berry Becker and her parents Joseph S. Berry Sr. and Evangeline C. Berry. She is survived by her sister Evangeline Berry Cathcart, three children Gail Learnard of Jefferson MA, Marsha Learnard of Garner, NC and Scott Learnard and his life partner Nancy Taylor of West Palm Beach FL as well as four grandchildren and four great grandchildren and ten nieces and nephews. Whenever you mentioned the name Lila anywhere in the NH Seacoast, everyone knew who she was. You never needed a last name; she was that well known. She began her career in NH as a communications specialist with the Dunfey family. She was one of the first female barbers to open a shop in North Hampton, a jazz singer at the Ashworth in Hampton Beach NH, and an avid golfer and bridge player. In 1997 she was voted Miss Senior NH. She was an advocate of women’s rights at Portsmouth Country Club and brought about equality for men and women in the regulation of tee times. As a member of Abenaque Country Club, she was one of the top female players in the ladies league and was often part of organizing events for both the golf league and bridge club. At almost any event; birthdays, weddings, funerals, she would compose a special poem for the honoree. And almost always she would be asked to sing a song or two. The most recent request was at her 90th birthday celebration and she still sounded wonderful. A Memorial Service will be held at Remick and Gendron Funeral Home in Hampton, NH on Sunday, April 16, 2023 at 11AM with a reception following the service. One of her passions was caring for those in need, particularly those who served our country. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnel to Towers by clicking here To view a recording of the memorial service, please use the link below: https://youtu.be/Cmhydu0aEKo

Lila A. Berry

May 23, 1931