Lillie Belle Etter

Lillie Belle Beard Etter, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away on Sunday, March 6, 2016, at the age of 100. Visitation with the family is scheduled for Tuesday, March 15, 2016 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Stewart Family Funeral Home, 7525 Old Jacksonville Hwy. in Tyler. A private burial is scheduled on Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at Rose Hill Cemetery, under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home. In 1974, Lillie Belle was preceded in death by husband, Craven Beard and in 1995 by husband, Eugene Etter. Also preceding her in death were her parents, her beloved step-mother, a sister and five brothers. She is survived by her devoted son and daughter, C. W. Beard and Bonnie Beard Holland; adored grandson, Chip Entz and wife Dina; great-grandchildren, Andrew Entz, Ashley Entz Daab and husband Aaron and sister, Mary Wright Adams. Music – especially organ – was always an important part of Lillie Belle’s life, and she pursued this passion at Baylor. For many years, she served as an organist at the First Baptist Church in Tyler, played the organ for special church services of many other faiths, and served as an organist at Lloyd James Funeral Home. Her love of music guided her to become a charter member of Tyler’s Music Coterie. When her father passed away, Lillie Belle and step-mother, Golden Wright, opened a women’s clothing store named Broadway Jr. Shop that grew to become Broadway Jr. and Sr., and in 1963 saw the partners open a branch – Mary Bonn Fashions – named for their daughters. An elegant bridal shop soon followed at the Broadway location, becoming well known thoughout the Tyler area. Lillie Belle’s reputation as a successful bridal consultant also extended to the bridal houses in New York City, resulting in her being invited to serve on the board of several bridal houses. Her attention to detail and her commitment to excellence in service became her professional trademarks. Lillie Belle’s warm smile – coupled with her sweet, gentle spirit – created a special charm that appealed to individuals of all ages. Family and friends often referred to her as the “prayer warrior” because of her strong belief in the power of prayer. Her devotion to prayer for others was motivated by the same unconditional love that was evident in her words and deeds. She was especially devoted to the widows group that was her special ministry at Green Acres Baptist Church until her health prevented her from overseeing this group. The family wishes to thank Peggy Kirkley and Anna McIntyre for their devotion in loving and caring for us all.

Lillie Belle Etter

November 25, 1915 - March 6, 2016