Lillian Pylman

With a life that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Lillian Pylman was a blessing to everyone she met. Upon meeting her it only took a few moments to discover that her faith was the cornerstone upon which her life was built. Lillian was a longtime member of the community she called home, and she was the sort of person who never met a stranger. Outgoing, kindhearted, and genuine, she touched the hearts and lives of those too numerous to count. Although she will be deeply missed, Lillian leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her family and friends will forever treasure.

It was great to be an American during the 1920s. Innovation was making a way to countless new technological advancements that changed the way we lived our everyday lives. Cars were more affordable since they were mass produced on assembly lines, refrigerators and washing machines became part of our homes, and radios expanded our reach in the world around us. Amidst this exciting time was a time of great anticipation in the lives of Gerrit and Effie (Vande Brink) Pylman as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby as the beauty of summer unfolded in June of 1922 in Wyoming Township, Michigan. The big day finally arrived on June 18th when the baby girl they named Lillian Alberta drew her first breath. She was the younger of two girls to be raised on the family farm in nearby Marne as she was joined in her family by her older sister, Catherine. Lillian learned the value of hard work while living on the farm where they raised crops and dairy cows. A student at local schools, she attended elementary school at Red Brick School, which was the same school that her father, sister, and niece attended. Lillian went on to graduate from Coopersville High in 1940.

Throughout her life Lillian was always busy. She spent the bulk of her working days working as an operator for Michigan Bell until retiring in the mid-seventies. Even after retiring, Lillian was active in the Michigan Bell reunions. She lived in the family home on Kenowa, and although she never married she was actively involved in her church. Lillian was a longtime member of Remembrance Reformed Church, and her faith was such an important part of her life. For years she was a group leader in Bible Study Fellowship there.

There was never anything of greater importance to Lillian than the people in her life. She loved spending time with her close friends, Jayne, Helen, and Nelvia, and they greatly enriched her life. Lillian made it a priority to visit her mother, a missionary to Native Americans in Oklahoma, as often as she could. Lillian also enjoyed reading, primarily books from Christian authors or that focused on the Amish way of life.

Later in life Lillian continued to embrace the days she was given. She delighted in spending time with her family and friends, and she remained as active as she could. By 2007, Lillian began showing symptoms of dementia. She then moved to Edison Manor where she remained for the rest of her life.

Outgoing, generous, and compassionate, Lillian A. Pylman was an amazing woman to know and love. She was never one to worry about the little things, and she faced whatever came her way with a quiet strength and graceful courage that were to be admired. Hardworking and willing to help, Lillian was forever looking for ways to serve others in ways both great and small. Deeply loved, she will be forever missed.

PYLMAN – Miss Lillian A. Pylman aged 94, of Grand Rapids, went to be with her Lord and Savior on November 18, 2016. She was preceded in death by her sister, Catherine (Almon) Horton. Lillian is survived by her nieces, Emily (Denny) Brouwer and Alta (Ron) Veeneman; and several great-nieces and nephews. Lillian was a charter member of Remembrance Reformed Church and a long time employee of Michigan Bell. She also was a Group Leader of Bible Study Fellowship for many years. The Funeral Service will be held at 1 PM, followed by a time of fellowship, on Tuesday November 22, 2016 at Remembrance Reformed Church, 4575 Remembrance Rd NW with Rev. Vern Van Der Werff officiating. Contributions in her memory may be made to Christian Rest Home Foundation. Interment in Brooklawn Cemetery. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to read her lifestory, archive a memory, photo, or sign the guestbook online.