Lillie Ruth Hardingham

Lillie was born on September 24, 1948 in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, and spent most of her schooling in Plainfield, graduating from Plainfield High School in 1967.

From early on, music was more than just a skill for Lillie; it was a language through which she moved in the world. A remarkable musician in a family where music ran deep, she played the violin and was granted a full scholarship to Juilliard. Her voice and presence also became part of the life of her church and community: she sang with the choirs of Christ Episcopal Church in New Brunswick and Christ Episcopal Church in Newton for 45 years, and shared her talent with the Sussex County Oratorio Society and the Watergap Singers. She also served several terms as a vestry member in New Brunswick.

When the music paused, she found the same peace and devotion outdoors—drawn to nature, gardening, and the simple patience of tending what grows. She also gave her time and care through Christ Church in Stitches, a group dedicated to providing comfort and support to those in need through the gifts of hand-made prayer shawls, blankets, scarves, and hats. A devoted cat lover, she always had cats throughout the years and their companionship brought Lillie much delight.

Lillie worked for Verizon—formerly Bell Atlantic— for 33 years starting in the Plainfield office, then the New Brunswick office, and finally the Whippany office before retiring in 2001. In a field that did not easily make room for women in the 1960s, she persevered and became one of the first female switchmans on the East Coast. In 2005, she became the administrative assistant at St John’s Episcoial Church in Somerville, serving faithfully until 2021.

Lillie is survived by her beloved twin sister, Elizabeth Ann Rosenbergh; her nephew, Edmund Rosenbergh III; and her niece, Suzanne Rosenbergh.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to a local animal shelter of your choice.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.