Lillian Rita Krajenka (née Lovecchio), 67, of Derry, NH, passed away suddenly on Thursday, February 1, 2024, in Portsmouth Regional Hospital in Portsmouth, NH. She had been a resident of Derry for the past 31 years.
Lillian was born at Mercy Hospital in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, on August 15, 1956 to Joseph Lovecchio II and Francis M. Wagner. A few years later, a new marriage took her to Worcester, MA, and eventually to the picturesque Cape Cod where she spent her formative years and had some of her happiest moments. A proud graduate of Barnstable High School, Class of 1974, her most cherished memories were those from her days cheerleading, afternoons at Signor Pizza, and hitting the beach with her friends.
After high school, Lillian's caring nature led her to pursue a career in nursing—a calling she embraced wholeheartedly. She enrolled at Lemuel Shattuck in Jamaica Plain, MA, and ultimately earned her nursing degree at Cape Cod Community College. Her dedication to nursing wasn't just a job; it was a calling. One that filled her days with purpose and her heart with fulfillment. If ever there was a spirit to guide family and friends through health, sorrow, and well-being, Lillian was that spirit.
In April 1986 Lillian embarked on the adventure of marriage. She and Gerard met and married in New Orleans and shortly afterwards settled in Binghamton, NY where in July 1989 they welcomed their daughter Katelyn. Then new opportunities brought the young family to Derry, NH where they eventually welcomed Nicholas in May 1993. Lillian was a devoted mother whose children were her pride and joy. She was never happier than when she was participating in their lives like chaperoning their field trips, working in the snack shack during football games, or hosting an endless series of play dates.
More than a just mother, wife, and daughter, Lillian was a fun-loving, generous soul who always wanted others to feel celebrated and welcome. Blessed with the gift of rhythm, she would boogie to any type of music from George Benson to the Rolling Stones with her kitchen (or even car) often becoming her own personal dance floor. She was also the “master-crafter” who loved sharing joy with others whether it was with a freshly baked cake, a homecooked meal, a gift basket, or a thoughtfully written card.
Lillian is survived by her loving husband of 37 years, Gerard Krajenka; daughter, Katelyn Krajenka; son, Nicholas Krajenka; brother, Joseph Lovecchio III; sister, Xanthe E. Labovites; and other aunts, uncles, and cousins. Lillian was predeceased by her father Joseph Lovecchio II and her mother Francis M. Wagner.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch Street, Derry, with a funeral service to follow at 7:00 PM. A graveside service will be held the following day, February 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM in the Forest Hill Cemetery, E. Derry Road, East Derry, NH. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.