SYMMES, Lillian M., 101, of Riverview, FL
passed away March 31, 2007.
Lillian was born June 24, 1905 in Havana, FL to
Jesse W. and Ruth (Wells) Shelfer.
As a little child, Lillian always wanted to be a teacher.
She began her teaching career at age 18 in a one-room schoolhouse
in Wakulla County.
Lillian moved to Riverview when she married
Fred Symmes on August 13, 1927.
Fred was a grandson of Dr. G. W. Symmes,
who was a founding member of the
Hillsborough County A.M.A. in 1895.
After 63 years of loving marriage, Fred died in 1990.

Lillian was an elementary school teacher in the
Riverview area for 30 years.

After many summers of college study she graduated
with her degree in education
from the University of Tampa in 1951.
At the time of her death she was recognized as the
oldest living University of Tampa alumna.

She loved teaching and her students loved "Miz Symmes"!
In 2001 she was humbled to be selected to have
Lillian Symmes Elementary School named in her honor.
She was so proud of "her school".
Lillian was a member of De Soto Chapter of Eastern Star and was
Worthy Matron 1948-1949.
She was a member of Riverview United Methodist Church,
sharing her faith with all.
Lillian is survived by her loving family;
son, Lewis F. Symmes and his wife Betty;
grandson, James Lewis Symmes and his wife Teresa;
great-granddaughter, Alicia and numerous nieces and nephews and
great nieces and great nephews.

Go with God, our patient, loving and beautiful "Hunny."
Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 3, 2007 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at
Serenity Meadows Funeral Home, with Eastern Star Service at 7:30 pm.
A Celebration of Lillian's life will be held Wednesday, April 4, 2007 at 2:00 pm
at Riverview United Methodist Church.
Flowers will be accepted or memorials in memory of Lillian
may be sent to Riverview United Methodist Church,
8002 US Hwy. 301 South, Riverview, FL 33569.

Online messages may be expressed at
www.serenitymeadows.com