Lillian, also known affectionately as DeeDee, was born in New Haven, Ct. in 1917 to Ella Augusta and William J. Bree. She was raised with her sisters, Margaret and Betty and spoke often of the wonderful life she shared with her loving family. From her earliest childhood years she delighted her friends and family with her irrepressible personality. She loved to have fun, was always ready to laugh, and charmed everyone she met along the way with her positive outlook.
She played the trumpet in her high school years and was leader of the marching band. After graduation, she pursued a secretarial career at Yale University. She met Jack O’Dea in 1942 and they began a romance that remained vibrant through 64 years of marriage until Jack’s death in 2007. They spent their married years in East Haven, Ct. and then in Kettering, Ohio where Jack was an executive for NCR. Jack and DeeDee were active members of the community and the social network at NCR, where DeeDee was known for her flair for fashion.
In 2008, she moved back to Connecticut, taking up residence at The Arbors of Hopbrook in Manchester, where she could enjoy being in closer proximity to her family support group. During this time, she cultivated valuable new friendships with fellow residents at the Arbors to whom she remained close until her passing.
Throughout her 100 years DeeDee maintained a delightful optimism that was infectious. Her interest in world events, all things related to family, and the best of late night television never diminished. Anyone who was lucky enough to meet her can attest to her endearing personality and unwavering commitment to her husband Jack and her family. She and Jack were always there for holidays and celebrations becoming more like parents and grandparents than aunt and uncle after her sister Betty died at a very young age.
Lillian is survived by a son, Bill O’Dea, his partner, Anne McCormack, son Jack O’Dea III, grandson Joseph O’Dea, daughter-in-law Marie Zazzi, nieces Maryann Simoni Barbara Sullivan, and Joan Ruotolo and her cousin Janice Gallagher. Her extended family of cousins, nieces, and nephews will also miss her greatly. On October 16th, 2017 her 100th birthday was celebrated with a large gathering. She will be most remembered for the joy she brought to all who knew her.
Services to celebrate her life will be held on Friday, February 16th, 2018 at the Glastonbury Funeral Home, Glastonbury, CT 06033 with visiting hours from 11am-1pm, with a Funeral service beginning at 1pm. at the funeral home. Burial will be in David Cemetery in Kettering, OH at a later date. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.glastonburyfuneral.com
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