Lynn Lenore Acerra

She was, in so many ways, the heartbeat of her family—and of more lives than she ever let on.

Born in Hillside, Illinois, Lynn grew up in a neighborhood where people looked out for each other, and she carried that ethic with her for the rest of her life. She attended Proviso West High School, where she excelled as a cheerleader and in tennis.

In 1964, she married the great love of her life, Michael Carmen Acerra. Together, they shared 46 years of partnership, raising a family rooted in faith, loyalty, and deep affection—and building a life of service to others. With Michael at her side, Lynn began what would become her life’s work at the Oak Ridge Convalescent Home in Hillside, where she served as Administrator for 46 years. She wasn’t just the one in charge—she was the soul of the place, guiding it with a rare combination of compassion, competence, and unshakable dedication.

At 19, she was already a mother, balancing the challenges of young parenthood while helping run the nursing home. She gave both roles her whole heart.

To say Lynn was the matriarch is somehow not enough. Holidays didn’t just happen at her house—they became her house. Her kitchen was the setting for every celebration and sacred everyday meal. That’s where the gravy (never just “sauce”) simmered all day, where kids would sneak a meatball, and where guests were folded into the family whether they expected it or not.

She was “Nana” to many—family, friends, and sometimes even strangers who just needed a little warmth. Her floral arrangements were breathtaking. Her gift baskets were events in themselves. Her sense of beauty and generosity flowed into everything she touched—always thoughtful, always done with love.

She was a Cub Scout Den Mother, the kind who made you believe you could build something out of popsicle sticks and change the world. She was also an avid horseback rider—drawn to the strength, grace, and freedom of it. If she loved something, she gave it her whole heart.

Lynn was a devoted convert to Catholicism—a faith she embraced not just in belief, but in the way she lived her life. She became a beloved member of St. Anne Catholic Community Church in Barrington, where she served for over a decade as a Minister of Care, bringing the sacraments—and a steady, loving presence—to the sick, elderly, and homebound.

Her commitment to service extended beyond the church. She served on the boards of The Michael Joseph Foundation and Arden Shore Child and Family Services. She was a loyal supporter of Catholic Charities, and when local politicians needed help writing their speeches, they knew who to call—Lynn.

She was the kind of woman who was always doing for others, even if she’d be the last to take credit. Her presence was felt daily—in her family, in her community, and in every life she touched.

Lynn is preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Michael Carmen Acerra; her daughter Patricia Keane; her parents, John D. Rhymer and Virginia Rhymer (née Rose); and her brother, Marc Rhymer.

She is survived by her children Michael (Heather) Acerra, Michelle (William) Coleman, and Marc (Tina) Acerra; and her honorary son, Sebastian Gomez (Kasia). She was the adored grandmother of Luke (Inés) and Alec Acerra; Tyler, Eric (Delaney), Victoria, and Anna Coleman; Brooke and MJ Acerra; Michael, Julian, and Brianna Farfan; Kristi Sampson; and Patrick Keane. She was the proud great-grandmother of Luzia Acerra and Ryan Sampson. She is also survived by her beloved older sister, Dee Ann Hill, and her loyal companion, Bailey the dog.

She leaves behind a big, loud, beautiful family—one she built with her hands, her heart, and her Sunday gravy.

Lying in state Friday, July 25, 2025, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at St. Anne Catholic Community Church, 120 Ela Street, Barrington, IL 60010. Final Viewing 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025, at St. Anne Catholic Community Church, Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 a.m. Luncheon to immediately follow at Moretti's 128 South Wool Street, Barrington until the time of procession to the cemetery at 2 p.m. Interment Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Hillside, IL. Arrangement entrusted to Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016. For more information, please call (847) 824-5155.