Beryl Jean Flynn, 89, passed away after a brief illness on Monday May 19, 2014 at Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz. Born on Sept. 13, 1924 in Queensland, Australia to George Brittan and Ethel (Danaher) Brittan.
Beryl grew up in the city of Brisbane. She did well academically, earning recognition for her English compositions. After graduating from Business College, Beryl went to work for the Brisbane Telegraph Newspaper during WWII. Over one million American Troops came through the city of Brisbane, and General MacArthur;’s headquarters was just down the street from the newspaper.
Beryl met Army Air Corps Sergeant Daniel Flynn during this time, and they were married on June 8, 1946. Shortly after, Beryl and Dan boarded the Mariposa, a ship carrying thousands of war brides, to make their home in the U.S. They arrived in San Francisco which became their home for the next two years. Over the next 27 years, Beryl and Dan resided in both countries, making Santa Cruz, Calif. their permanent home in 1975.
Beryl was an inspiration and role model for her entire family. She faced life’s adversities and hardships with grace and class. She was happiest when surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She was an excellent cook, providing the most delicious meals at family gatherings. In her younger years she loved to swim and play tennis. Beryl was also known for having a genuine interest in people. She had an exceptional ability for remembering the details of one’s life story. She loved to read and write letters, and kept in touch with family and the many friends she made throughout the years.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Daniel Flynn (2000), her brothers George Brittan (1998), Stan Brittan (2013) and son-in-law Tony Gills (1998).
Beryl is survived by her sons John Flynn and Paul Flynn; daughter Gail (Flynn) Gills; sister Joan Hickey of Queensland Australia; her grandchildren, Michael (Denicia), Kerry (Henry), Paul (Michelle), Colleen (Garrett) and Sean; her great-grandchildren, Anthony, Mikey, Sydney, Maverick, Lilly, and Tony, as well as many nieces, nephews and other family members.
A service and celebration of Beryl’s life will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at Resurrection Catholic Church, 7600 Soquel Dr., Aptos, Calif. Reception immediately following at Severino’s, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos, Calif.
Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.