The Beginning Life began for Lillian Mazarene Thomas Alder in Newport, Delaware on March 2, 1922. She was the daughter of the late Joseph and Alice Rosalina Moore Thomas. She was the wife of the late Ernest Alder, Jr. with whom she shared 77 years of marriage. From that union six children were born: Betty Ann, Sharon, Kathleen, Ernest "Buster", Patrice, and Phillip.

The Transition On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, while at Manatawny Manor in Pottstown, Lillian transitioned from this life to her rewarded home in Glory at the remarkable age of 103 while being surrounded by her loved ones.

The Matriarch Lillian was a nurturing mother, loving and affectionate grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and had a deep love for her family. She always wanted to make sure her children, grandchildren, and family were alright. Lillian was a kind, sweet, and generous woman who always put other's needs above her own.

Lillian graduated from Howard High School in Delaware. She worked as a Nurse's Aide at Chester County Hospital in West Chester for many years. She enjoyed working with her patients. She was also employed at Henderson High School in the cafeteria. Lillian enjoyed working and insisted on getting a job up until the Lord called her home.

Lillian enjoyed eating seafood, her granddaughter Sierra's pasta salad, Trish's zucchini bread, Kathy's eggplant, and those tomatoes. She enjoyed making spaghetti for her family. Lillian cherished making memories with her loved ones.

Lillian enjoyed going to Shady Maple to eat, going to the Bird-N-Hand Inn & Market with her husband, walking around the outlets, and attending the Philadelphia Flower Show. Lillian enjoyed her time at the shore in Atlantic City with her husband, sister Josephine and brother-in-law. She cherished the trip she took to Niagara Falls (Canadian side) with her husband, sister Josephine, and beloved brother-in-law.

Lillian loved to play Scrabble and was affectionately known as "Mrs. Webster the dictionary". Lillian was often heard singing around the house. "Unchained Melody" by the Righteous Brothers was her favorite tune. Watching Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and the PBS channel was her favorite pastime.

Lillian was a member of the First Baptist Church of Passtown in Coatesville. She loved the Lord and often read The New Testament. She always told her grandchildren to pray and to take the Lord with them.

Her Legacy In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Alder, Jr.; daughters; Betty Ann Alder, Sharon Williams; son, Ernest "Buster" Alder, III; brothers, Douglas S. Thomas, Richard Thomas; sisters, Josephine Thomas Neal, Bernice Thomas; grandson, William George Washington; and a great-great-grandson, baby Kyree Frances George Peterson.

The precious memories she shared with her family will forever remain cherished by her son, Phillip E. Alder of Coatesville; daughters, Kathleen Savage and Patrice Alder both of Downingtown; 16 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren, 61 great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Lillian was the heart of the family. Lillian's legacy is one of love and an unwavering commitment to her family. Though she is gone from our presence, she will not be forgotten. We will cherish her memory in our hearts.

Life Celebration Homegoing Services honoring and celebrating Lillian's life will be held at 10:00 AM, on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Passtown, 117 Barber Avenue, Coatesville, PA 19320. A public viewing will be held from 8:00 AM – 9:45 AM. The interment will be held immediately following the service in the Union Hill Cemetery in Kennett Square.

Condolences to be read should be faxed to 610-383-7523 or emailed to wrightfuneralsvs@aol.com by Friday, 3:00 pm.  Family and friends may share condolences at the guestbook link on this memorial page where all are welcome to share photos and light a candle in her memory.

Flowers Flowers may be sent to the church. The flower theme color is white.