Lila E. Edminster
Lila Edminster (Utter), age 78, of Alpine, NY, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Seneca View in Montour Falls, NY, with her family near.
Lila was born to the late Grant and Grace (Keen) Utter on February 20, 1948. She was the fourth of five children and graduated from Romulus Central School. For many years, Lila was a loving stay-at-home mother to her children, Eric and Jennifer, before making a career in the home health field and becoming a nurse's aide.
Lila enjoyed many things; she delighted, most, in doting on her grandchildren. She would mail packages and cards to them for any and all occasions. She cherished her time with them by planning countless fun outings and activities to do at home together. She also enjoyed spending time with her husband, her friends, and family by preparing delicious home-cooked meals, playing card games and Rummikub, and watching movies. She often looked forward to going out to eat and hosting many picnics and cookouts. An avid word puzzle solver, she challenged friends and family to Words With Friends battles, as well as being competitive while watching her favorite show, Wheel of Fortune.
Lila loved country music and attended many live shows. Her hobbies included making crafts, firing up her sewing machine to make clothes for her children and grandchildren while also making gorgeous tablecloths, runners, placemats, and more. She was also known for beautiful crocheted pieces. For many years, planting breathtaking gardens brought her much joy.
She leaves behind a legacy of kindness through her volunteer work at Cayutaville Methodist Church; she was a dedicated volunteer at the Southern Tier Food Bank, where she worked tirelessly alongside others for over 10 years. She also volunteered at The Gemm Shop in Trumansburg.
She is survived by her daughter Jennifer and her husband Jonathan; grandchildren Elizabeth, Lillian, and Nathan; sisters Marian Gable and Debra Albro, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; also a church family who was so dear to her.
Lila was predeceased by her parents; her husband Leroy Edminster; her son Eric Bishop; her brother Ronald Utter; her sister Anna Louise Walker.
All who knew Lila are invited to call between 9:30-11:00 a.m. with a service to follow at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Cayutaville Methodist Church, 3231 County Route 6, Alpine, NY 14805.
While flowers are beautiful, the family welcomes donations to Bampa's House to honor Lila's endless appreciation for the care her late husband, Leroy, received there: https://www.bampashouse.org/donate