Elizabeth Ann (Dillard) Nilsen

BRAINTREE - Elizabeth “Libby” Nilsen (Dillard), 88 years young, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday morning, February 19, 2020, in Naples, FL. She was born in Sylva, NC and resided in Braintree, MA and Naples, FL.

Libby was the wife of the late Donald H. Nilsen, loving mother to Donna Nilsen, Kurt Nilsen and his wife Joy, Lynne Fitzgerald and her husband Kenneth, and devoted Nana to Andrew and Caroline Nilsen. She is survived by her sister in law Elaine Caliri of Quincy and many nieces and nephews.

Libby loved spending time with her grandchildren, the beach and collecting shells, cribbage, card games (especially bridge), slot machines, and holding court at family gatherings. She was famous for her jokes, homemade grape jelly, and the generosity of her time and many talents.  She also enjoyed fishing, arts and crafts, arranging flowers and bowling. Libby was one of a kind, full of life, and loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Libby was a member of the Puritan Bridge Club and played at many bridge tables in Naples, FL. She was an early member of the Braintree Women’s Club and active for 30 years. Her husband Don was a member of Braintree American Legion Post 86, where she was active as chairwoman and creative talent of their Haunted House, and their Award Winning floats for the Quincy Christmas parades.

Libby’s larger than life spirit will be greatly missed by her family, many friends, and card playing partners.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Libby may be made to the American Heart Association or the Puritan Bridge Club, 22 Faxon Street, Braintree, MA .02184.

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