Lily M. Beland, 57 of Derry, NH, died Sunday, December 25, 2005 in the Community Hospice House, Merrimack, NH. Ms. Beland was born in Ayer, MA on July 8, 1948, a daughter of the late William J. and Lillian (Pelote) O'Connell. She was raised in Shirley, MA, graduated from Ayer High School, Class of 1966 and also from Rivier College in 1994. Ms. Beland received her Masters Degree in Social Work in 1997 from Boston University. She worked for Holy Family Hospital in Methuen, MA for five years, and then for the Elliot Hospital in Manchester, NH since 2002. She was a member of the Derry Creative Women's Writers Group. She enjoyed writing, kayaking and traveling as well as spending time with family and friends.
She is survived by a daughter, Kristen Carlson of Litchfield, NH, a son, Gavin Beland of Nashua, NH, two grandchildren, two brothers, William O'Connell of Fitchburg, MA, Daniel O'Connell of Ayer, MA, four sisters, Pearl Bergeron of Amherst, NH, Marie Almy of Ayer, Carol Meadows and Charleen Goulet, both of Nashua, NH and also by several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a brother, Joseph O’Connell.
There are no calling hours. Following cremation, the family will hold an informal "Celebration of Lily's Life" gathering at her daughter Kristen's home, at 6 Perry Ct., Litchfield, NH on Sunday, January 8, 2006. All friends and family of Lily are welcome to attend anytime between 12 and 6pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Gail Singer Memorial Bldg., 360 State Rt. 101, Suite 501, Bedford, NH 03110-5032.