Lida Ackerson passed away on Aug. 9, 2019, from complications due to Parkinson’s disease, with her devoted husband by her side. She was born on Jan. 16, 1933. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend.
Lida was known for her compassion, kindness and willingness to help others. She was often cheerful and optimistic and felt that acceptance and a positive attitude is the best choice when faced with difficulties. She was well-known for her sense of humor and she loved laughing uproariously – the kind where her belly and cheeks ached with joy. She was the best kind of Christian and lived her values every day. This gave her fierce hope that upon her death she would be reunited with her sisters and other loved ones. She was a feminist and remained hopeful that the ERA would one day pass. Lida had a creative spirit that manifested in a variety of ways. She was an artist though she denied it, believing it was too lofty a title for her sewing, crocheting and other endeavors. She wrote poetry about the natural world, reveling in its divine and glorious beauty. She sang and was known for her alto harmonies.
Lida, more affectionately known as “Tekie” affected many people with her love. The conversations we shared with her had a profound impact on our lives as did the many cards and letters she wrote. We became better people because of her.
Lida was proud of her role as salutatorian of her senior high school class. She was a member for decades of the United Methodist Church in Perryville, N.Y. One of her biggest joys was singing in the church choir with her daughters. Additionally, she was grateful for her years teaching Sunday school and sharing her faith. She cherished the time spent with her grandchildren building special relationships with each one. The adventures she shared travelling with her husband enriched her life immensely. A particular delight for her was surprising people with her repertoire of unexpected jokes.
She leaves behind her beloved family: husband, James Ackerson, whom she loved and bossed around for 68 years; her four children and their spouses Mike and Maggie Ackerson, Judy and Kevin Hurlbert, Cherie Ackerson and Cindy Wilson, Peg and Al Parker; a sister, Jeanette Henderson, a brother, Fred Duby, three sisters-in-law, 12 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Lida’s life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Perryville United Methodist Church, 2770 Perryville Road, Canastota, NY 13032. The service will be followed by a reception in the annex. Please bring your loving memories of Lida to share during the service. In lieu of flowers, Lida’s family requests any donations be made to the church.
