Vilma J. Lias

Vilma J. Lias (Carano) of Hollis, NH, died peacefully on March 26 in her home at age 90. Her beloved husband of 68 years, Russell "Buzz" Lias was by her side. In addition to Russell, she is survived by her two cherished children, Allen Lias (Jeanne) of Pittsburgh, PA and Renae Lias (Neil Claffey) of Nashua, NH. Vilma was blessed with four grandchildren, Jennifer Gordon (Dan) of Bethesda, MD, Steven Lias (Ericka) of Duxbury, MA, Elias Claffey of Dillon, CO, and Thomas Claffey (Mel Hubner) of Madrid, Spain. She was additionally blessed with three great grandchildren, Chloe, Gabriel and Lane. Vilma was predeceased by her father and mother, Salvatore and Angelina Carano, sister Evelyn Beozubiak and brother Joseph.

Vilma was born December 28, 1935, and grew up in Aliquippa, PA, where she and Buzz met, fell in love, and started their family. They eventually moved to Beaver, PA, where they lived for 26 years before relocating to the New England area to be more involved in the lives of their family and grandchildren. Vilma worked several retail jobs, but her main job and devotion was as a homemaker for her family.

She visited her mom, dad and sister frequently, bringing her own children for Sunday spaghetti dinners. She always had a meal on the table as Buzz, with whom she shared an uncommon love, walked in the door from work. She enjoyed the western PA sports teams more for the opportunities to gather, setting out snacks and games, than for the events themselves. She often brought some goofiness to liven up those festivities, offering silly sayings and repeating funny sounding words and names that made everyone laugh.

She was an Italian beauty who, before her disease, never left the house without lipstick and every hair in place. She was expressive and genuine, with a warm smile.

The family thanks Pathways Hospice for their compassionate care, as well as caregiver Kadidia.

A memorial service will be held at Pilgrim Congregational Church 4 Watson St., Nashua, NH on Tuesday, April 7th at 12 noon, followed by light refreshments. A private burial will be held in the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen. Donations may be made in Vilma's name to the Alzheimer's Association. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

The Farwell Funeral Service, 18 Lock Street, Nashua is assisting the family with arrangements.