Lillian Beryl Hartman
Lillian Beryl Hartman, known affectionately as Beryl by her loved ones, was called home to be with the Lord on November 29, 2025, at the age of 93. A life marked by faith, love, and service, Beryl left this world peacefully due to natural causes at Bethany Village nursing home in Centerville, Ohio. She was surrounded by the warmth of her family’s love.
Born on December 13, 1931, in Ripley County, Indiana, Beryl was the cherished daughter of Elmer and Myrtle Demaree. She grew up in a bustling household alongside her siblings Mildred Jackson, Lester Demaree, Charles Demaree, Neill Demaree, Gladys Cook, Virgil Demaree, Raymond Demaree, Jesse Demaree, Florence Laswell, Evelyn Demaree, all of whom preceded her in passing.
Beryl’s journey of love began with her first husband, James Gillahan Sr., who passed away, leaving her with their beloved sons, Daniel Gillahan and wife Henri of Cumberland IN and James Gillahan Jr. and his wife Beth of Centerville, OH. She later found love again and shared many happy years with her second husband, Howard Hartman, until his passing. Through the joys and sorrows, Beryl’s resilient spirit and deep-rooted faith were her guiding lights.
Beryl’s commitment to her family was paramount, and she was a cherished grandmother to Terri and Bill (deceased) Gundlach, Brandi Mclemore, Danielle and Roderick Mack, Melissa and Jordan Meyer, Michele and Chris Sobecki, James and Missy Gillahan and Megan and Eion Hogston who will carry the lessons of her love and faith with them always. Additionally Beryl had many, many, many great and great great grandkids.
A woman of strong Christian faith, Beryl lived her life in service to others. She found joy in simple pleasures such as crocheting, cooking, and reading the Bible. Her dedication to her church and community was evident through her many years of volunteering, particularly when she donned the costume of a clown (her clown name was Smiles) to bring smiles to those in hospice care. Her selfless acts of kindness and the warmth of her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Professionally, Beryl was a testament to hard work and loyalty, dedicating over 40 plus years making medicine at Eli Lilly in Indianapolis. Her work ethic and the friendships she cultivated there was a source of great pride and fulfillment throughout her career.
Beryl’s life was a living example of the biblical verse, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Her love for her family was unwavering, her faith unshakeable, and her generosity boundless. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that has undoubtedly been welcomed into eternal glory with open arms.
The memory of Lillian Beryl Hartman will be cherished and kept alive through the stories shared, the lessons taught, and the love she gave so freely. As we say farewell to Beryl, we hold tight to the promise of reunion in God’s heavenly kingdom, where joy knows no end.
We All will miss you VERY, VERY MUCH!!
