Lillie Nakahara

LILLIE NAKAHARA

1921 - 2017

Ninety-six-year-old Lillie peacefully passed away at home. Born in Seattle to Shizuo Hayashi and Yaeko Aizawa, Yuriko Lillie Hayashi was raised in Lake City, Washington, where she and her four siblings helped their parents farm Easter Lilies and vegetables while attending school until her family was forced to evacuate to the Minidoka Japanese Internment Camp.

Lillie and her husband, Susumu Nakahara, lived in Ogden for forty-nine years where they raised their two daughters, Nancy and Connie. Lillie worked hard throughout her life – farming, waitressing,  and working for the IRS and Hill Air Force Base.  For many years she enjoyed camping, being a Girl Scout leader, and teaching Sunday school at the Ogden Buddhist Church; but most of all Lillie loved her family and sports. Growing up she played hockey, volleyball, basketball, softball and bowling. As she grew older, her passion for sports continued by cheering for her daughters’ teams, the Weber State Wildcats, the Utah Stars and her beloved Utah Jazz.  When her grandson Garrett came into her life, Grandma became his greatest sports fan and cheerleader.

Lillie was strong having endured racism, the Depression and internment in Minidoka. However, nothing devastated her more than then the loss of her daughter Nancy. Lillie overcame her broken heart by caring for her only grandchild Garrett.  She loved cheering for Garrett at his games, traveling with him and entertaining him after school. Lillie also relished in crocheting and making various crafts for her family and friends.

Lillie is survived by Garrett, Connie and Mike Furubayashi, sister Taeko Takasugi, brothers Tokio and Kentaro Hayashi, many nephews and nieces, Griffey, and many friends she considered family.  She is preceded in death by Susumu, Nancy, brother-in-law John, sister Emiko and her parents.

Reverend Jerry Hirano conducted a service following Lillie’s passing. Lillie would like to thank all of you for your kindness, generosity and help throughout the years, especially the many friends who cared for Nancy.