Ilia Brett

Ilia Brett (Galleani) 90 of Akron passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 16, 2021. Born November 26, 1930 in Needham, MA to Olympia Luigi Galleani and Josephine (Kelly). Preceded in death by the love of her life, husband Richard; and siblings, Louis and Lorraine.

She leaves her son, Jeff (Beth); daughter, Debra (Craig); grandsons, Kyle (Kristen) and Phillip (Carlee); great-grandson, Porter; niece, Valerie Williams of Mt. Sinai, NY and nephew Damon Williams of Revere, MA.

Ilia was very proud of her Aunt, Dr. Ilia Galleani, of Boston who she grew up with after the loss of her Mother at an early age.

Ilia lived in Boston, Chicago, South Bend, Los Angeles and San Francisco, returning to Akron after retiring as a Legal Secretary in San Francisco.

When she worked in hospital administration in Boston, she always said that holding the newborns was her favorite way to take a break from work. She loved children and her grandsons enjoyed spending time cooking with her and the projects they built.

She was a wonderful mother who loved to cook for her everyone.

We all benefited from her Northern Italian cooking and outrageous desserts. The “Coffee Cake” has been enjoyed by many and the recipe is still held in secret with close family members.

Ilia enjoyed travel and her time as a Girl Scout Leader. She was a very competitive tennis player and excellent ice skater. Also enjoyed reading, painting, making dried flower arrangements and made several beautiful quilts.

She had a love of all animals, birds, and nature.

A private family memorial will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or cause.

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