Portland- Lila (aka Lulu) Kerman passed away on October 3, 2025, she died from medical complications of long-term heavy alcohol use. She was born on March 13, 1990, the beloved daughter of Nancy Decker of Watertown, MA and Ben Kerman of Hingham, MA. Lulu is survived by her brothers, Benyam and Maxwell Kerman, and his wife Jillian; stepparents, John Oliver and Paula McCree; nephews, Maxwell Jr. and Quinn Kerman; her uncle and aunt, Wayne and Sam Decker; her aunt, Dody Decker; and cousin, Maia Francini and her husband Juanjo Obon; and her dear friend, Tony Scala. She is also survived by her birth family, who never stopped loving her. She remained close to and attached to her family and friends throughout her life.
Our Lulu grew up in Watertown, MA where she graduated from Watertown High School. After attending Lyndon State College, her adventurous spirit led her to live in Vinalhaven, ME for a number of years. For nearly a decade she made her home in Portland, where she worked in hospitality at the Westin Hotel. In her last years, she was fortunate to find her true calling — caring for the elderly in senior residences. Lulu attended to the residents with love and care as if they were her dear family and friends. In turn, they loved her back, affectionately calling her their “little angel.” She seemed to get as much as she gave.
Lulu was open-hearted, loved to laugh, and make fun. She could be delightfully silly — truly a “lulu.” She was always eager to make new friends, hear their stories and share in their company. Her peace lay in the simple moments of walking through Maine woods and trails and floating on Indian Pond in St. Albans ME. Lulu found relaxation in gardening, craft projects, and snuggling with Tony’s dog, Gunner. We find comfort in these cherished memories of Lulu and the love she shared with us.
Burial will be private in Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge, MA.
In remembrance of Lila’s life, charitable donations in her name may be made to Portland Wheelers, Portlandwheelers.org, a volunteer-led organization that helps individuals who are unable to ride a bike enjoy bike rides courtesy of kind pedaling volunteers, of which her friend Tony is one.
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I am so deeply saddened to hear about the loss of your daughter, Lulu. I can only imagine the pain of losing someone so dear, and there are truly no words that can ease such heartbreak.
Please know that I’m holding you in my thoughts during this unimaginably difficult time. Lulu’s struggle and your love for her are both parts of a story that matters—and I hope, in time, you find moments of peace and comfort in the memories you shared.
If there’s anything I can do to support you, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Mikkie
Elliott
Dear Ben, Paula, and the rest of Lulu’s family,
We are so saddened by the death of your beloved Lulu. We offer you our love and support as you grieve her loss. All of us who are parents will grieve with you.
Love,
John and Karen
I had the good fortune of knowing you, Lulu.
And I repeat — the fortune — because truly, meeting you was a privilege.
You were such a bright, curious person, with that kind of curiosity that only comes from real intelligence.
You spent quite a bit of time here in Tuscany — and thank goodness you did. During all that time, you never stopped being amazed by everything around you. You were always so happy to discover new things, to taste, to experience. You fell in love with Italian food — especially Tuscan cuisine — good wine, and the simple joy of good living.
You made such a lasting impression on everyone here. Even after all these years, so many of our friends still remember you vividly — your smile, your joy, the way you could light up any room you walked into.
You had so much more to give, Lulu.
It was such a pleasure just being with you — even on quiet days, when we’d curl up under a blanket, watching a movie, talking for hours, losing track of time in those deep and honest conversations of ours.
And then there was your charming contradiction — you were a vegetarian, but when it came to some of those irresistible Tuscan dishes, you just had to try them. You’d laugh and say that some things were simply too good to miss — and honestly, you were right. That curiosity, that hunger for life in every sense, was one of the most beautiful parts of who you were.
You gave us laughter, warmth, intelligence, and love.
Your cousin Maia loved you deeply and always kept you close in everything she did.
You were — and still are — so deeply loved.
Juanjo Obon
I was always impressed by how much we had in common and how easy it was to be together and have a wonderful time. She showed me that distance doesn’t matter when you truly care. With her kindness and beautiful smile, she made us feel like part of one big family.
Lulu, rest in peace and keep smiling. You will always be in our hearts.
Love,
Maia and Franco.
When I think of you I hear your laugh, see your smile , feel your sparkle and remember the many good times together. We were very lucky to have you in our family. You will always be in our hearts, loved and missed.
Love,
Dody
.
may sorrowful hearts honor her life’s journey; and
may those who loved her know peace.
Condolences to her family and friends.