In the early morning hours of Palm Sunday, Beryl Charlton, died peacefully at the age of 93 at the Taylor Retirement Community, Laconia, New Hampshire, with her children close by.

Beryl was born and raised in Birmingham, England. She graduated from nursing school at the hospital in Stratford Upon Avon, demonstrating at a young age what was to be her life-long commitment to the care of others, as well as an activist concerning social justice issues.

At a hospital sponsored dance for Royal Airforce Officers, Beryl met Eric Charlton who then became her beloved husband of 65 years, and a partner in numerous and incredible life adventures. Their first adventure was emigrating to Montreal, followed by a move to this country in 1963.

While residing in York, Pennsylvania, Beryl graduated with the very first class of Nurse Practitioners from Johns Hopkins University. In their continuum of adventures together, Beryl and Eric left successful careers in mid-life, and became innkeepers of the Rabbit Hill Inn in Lower Waterford Vermont. Their love for people and hospitality made this a wonderful venture.

A number of years later, while vacationing in Maine, Beryl and Eric discovered Camden, and in fact purchased a home during that first visit. They resided in Camden for more than a couple of decades, growing deep roots in the community, finding treasured friendships, a beloved faith community with the Camden Congregational Church, and volunteering in many local charitable causes. Along the way in this very busy life, Beryl and Eric raised three children and found time to travel in the states and overseas.

Beryl lived with a strong heart, speaking her truth and taking on injustices in the world. She selflessly gave to others and had a unique gift of making everyone feel loved and valued. She marveled at all aspects of nature, and took delight in creating beautiful flower gardens for all to admire and enjoy. Above all, Beryl loved to laugh and gave directives any services honoring her life must be joyful and humorous.

Beryl was predeceased by her husband, Eric.

She proudly leaves her three children, Ursula “Charlie” Charlton, Peter Charlton and his wife, Carolyn, Paul Charlton and his wife, Kim, and many beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, as well as her dear sister, Alma of Doncaster England. There are also scores of dear friends across the world.

Please join us to celebrate Beryl’s life at a Memorial Services at the Camden Congregational Church on April 13, 2024, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shields Mission Fund c/o the church.