Lillie Ann Kerby's Obituary
Lillie Ann Kerby, age 81 of Nashville, TN passed away Sunday, March 10, 2013 at St. Thomas Hospital. Mrs. Kerby was born January 12, 1932 to the late Wesley and Arvela Angeline James in Nashville, TN. She was preceded in death by her parents; son, James Robert Newson; grandparents, Jady “Big Daddy” and Lillie Mae “Big Momma” Dillard; brothers, Robert and Wallace James; and grandchild, Jamie Newson. She is survived by her son, James Kerby. A graveside service and celebration of Lillie’s life will be conducted at 1 P.M., Thursday, March 14, 2013 in Historic Spring Hill Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Spring Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery, 5110 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216, (615) 865-1101.
She worked as a beautician from 1953 to 2011. She worked for the State of Tennessee from 1976 – 1994 and retired as Head of Records at River Bend Prison.
I tell you true that she was one of the best women I have ever known. She was strong, Very independent, tough as nails, cunningly smart and very funny at times. She knew what she believed and could explain, but never felt she had to push it down your throat. She was not threatened by others beliefs or to change hers as she went on with life. She was a redhead and feisty all of her life. She could verbally cut you to ribbons to the point that you would be in a fatal position after if you got on her bad side. For years my nickname for her was “John Wayne” and many a friend of mine from west Nashville can tell you how they learned the heard way, you never called Mrs. Kerby’s phone after 10:00 PM. She was a powerful woman and took life on the chine like no one I have ever known.
I am very proud of my mother, Lillie Ann Kerby. She was a mother, Father and friend. I can say with all pride that she made me who I am. If I am half the man that she was in a woman, then I will be OK in this life. I will remember and honor the face of my mother for the rest of my life.
With pride and respect to you Mom, Lillie Ann Kerby. I do Love You.
What’s your fondest memory of Lillie?
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Share a story where Lillie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lillie you’ll never forget.
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