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Lillian Oswald Obituary


Lillian Helfrich Oswald SOUTHERN SHORES - Lillian Helfrich Oswald, 85, died Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008, in her residence. Born Nov. 8, 1922, Lillian's life revolved around music, her church and family. Cheerfully, she offered her abilities to the community, whether promoting and teaching swimming programs for Kitty Hawk children or serving on her neighborhood board. During both government and extensive community service, Lillian's outstanding administrative skills were prized. Longstanding friendships were cherished, some spanning 80 years from childhood days in Titusville, Pa. A few years ago Lillian's husband, Paul, preceded her in death. Her children, Michael Williams and Margo VanDiver; stepchildren, Harriet O'Connor and John Oswald; six grandchildren, Craig and Steven Baker, Lisa and Heather O'Connor, and Nicole and Jason Oswald; and four great-grandchildren will greatly miss this family matriarch who so effortlessly set a fine example of living a meaningful life. Heartfelt thanks and gratitude are extended to Jeanne Drylie and Miss Boo who dedicated many months to her care and comfort, Dr. Kennan and Laurie who were always available for aid and reassurance, Joyce Twiddy who was her treasure, and Tux, her faithful companion. Lillian's pastors, the Revs. Tom Wilson and Ted Bishop, and their wives provided her spiritual comfort. Steve Blackstock and the choir of All Saint's Episcopal Church were among her dear friends on the Outer Banks where Lillian resided for 40 years. Lillian and her family appreciated the services of Community Hospice and caregivers. Their comfort, solace and laughter aided Lillian as did the hundreds of well-wishers from throughout her life. A celebration of life will be held in All Saint's Episcopal Church Saturday at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in the Southern Shores Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. and there will also be a reception following the service on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the All Saint's Episcopal Church Building Fund, that was central to Lillian's heart, at 40 Pintail Trail, Southern Shores, NC 27949. Twiford Colony Chapel, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements. Visit www.twifordfh.com.to sign the online register.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Oct. 21, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
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Edward Siergiej

October 22, 2008

Sincere condolences on the passing of Lillian. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Oswald family during this difficult time.

Ed Siergiej
17th Airborne Division Assn. WWII

Mary Siergiej
17th Airborne Division Association Ladies Auxiliary

Réal Desmarets

October 22, 2008

We were terribly upset to hear of the passing of your Mother and send you and your family our most sincere condolences in you very sad loss.
(apologize for the mistake with your father)

Marianne and Réal Desmarets
Belgium
Honoray member of the 17th Airborne Division Association

Réal Desmarets

October 22, 2008

We were terribly upset to hear of the passing of your father and send you and your family our most sincere condolences in you very sad loss.

Marianne and Réal Desmarets
Belgium
Honoray member of the 17th Airborne Division Association

Melissa Morauer

October 22, 2008

My deepest condolences to Lillian's family. I knew Lillian from All Saints when I lived on the Outer Banks. Lillian was truly a gem. She will be missed by all of whom she most graciously touched, and that would be many. I was fortunate to have known her.

Wesley Haex

October 22, 2008

My sincere condolences with the passing of Mrs. Lilian Oswald.
My thoughts are with the family.

Member of the 17th ABN Dutch Chapter.

John Oswald

October 21, 2008

During the past several months Lillian and I spent considerable time sharing what God was doing in our lives. I have known her for 43 years yet these final months marked a period of very special fellowship anointed by the Spirit of God. We shared an intimate understanding of the power of God as He ministered peace and grace to each of us. I bless her memory in His name.

Del Townsend

October 21, 2008

Greetings:

It is with a heavy heart and my deepest sympathy that we learn of the passing of a Family Member of one of our World War II Airborne Unit Members. YES TIME is taking its toll on our Members and their Family. On behalf of our Membership may we say "Farewell to a Family Member of one of our deceased Distinguished Veterans and a Valued Comrade".

Sincerely,

Del Townsend
Co A & B 194th GIR
17th Airborne Division Association
President, 2004 / 2008

Nicole Oswald-Diaz

October 21, 2008

I should of spent more time with her but the time I did spend with my grandmother are always deep in my heart. You will be missed.

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