MARNELL, Lillian

It is with broken hearts that we announce that Lillian Julia Marnell, originally from St. John’s, passed away suddenly, while surrounded by family, on June 3, 2023, at the age of 71. Lillian leaves to mourn her devoted husband of 51 years, Jim; and their sons, Chris (daughter-in-law, Debbie) and Jimmy; as well as her three precious grandchildren – her pride and joy – Emma, Luc (their mom, Kim Keats) and Jack. She also leaves to mourn her sister and best friend, Lorraine; her brothers, Jimmy (Joann); Tony (Rose Ann) and Bruce; her sisters-in-law, Joan Pope, Shirley Brennan and Helen Marnell-dillon; and her brothers-in-law, Ronnie (Linda), Tommy (Bette), Bobby (Maxine), Johnny and Joey (Elizabeth). She will be remembered by many lifelong friends, especially Rita Downey, Shelia Quann, Joan Norman, Paddy Hearn and Lennie Hand. Lillian is predeceased by her parents, Robert and Margaret Abbott; her brother, Robert Abbott; mother-in-law, Katherine Marnell; brothers-in-law, Jimmy Foley and Randy Brennan; and sister-in-law, Katherine Marnell. Lillian was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She and Jim were like two peas in a pod – as thick as thieves they were – always together; always having a laugh. Whether it was to go for a cup of coffee, a drive around the bay, a dance and sing song in the kitchen or to attend many enjoyable family functions; it was always Lilly and Jim – there was rarely one without the other. She was a woman with a heart of gold who would do so much for others time and time again, never thinking of herself first. Her wonderful smile and quick wit are just two of the many qualities she will be long remembered for. She will also be remembered by a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. There truly is a place in heaven for this incredible woman. The family would like to offer their sincere appreciation and many thanks to the paramedics, emergency staff and RNC officers for all their efforts and their compassion. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be at Barrett’s Funeral Home, Tuesday, June 6 and Wednesday, June 7th, from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A celebration of her life will take place at the Salvation Army West Citadel, 174 Mundy Pond Rd., on Thursday, June 8th, at 11 a.m. Flowers are gratefully accepted and donations can be made in her memory to The Gathering Place.

“I want to stroll over Heaven with you some glad day, when all our troubles and heartaches are vanished away, then we’ll enjoy the beauty where all things are new, I want to stroll over Heaven with you.”