Obituary of Beryl Elizabeth Ann LaMotte

May 22, 1937 - April 10, 2024

Beryl Elizabeth Ann LaMotte, a cherished wife, mother, friend, philanthropist, and community leader, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on May 22, 1937, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Beryl was an example of dedication to her family and community throughout her life.

Her adventurous spirit led her from South Africa in her mid-twenties to Montreal, Canada, where she worked at McGill University for Dr. Arthur Vineberg before moving to the United States, a country she loved like few others. Living in New York City, Beryl worked for Dr. J. Maxwell Chamberlin, a renowned thoracic surgeon. While working at New York's Roosevelt Hospital, she met the love of her life, Dr. Peter LaMotte, the hospital's Chief of Orthopedic Surgery and the team physician for the New York Mets. After a whirlwind courtship, they married in October 1969.

Together, they ventured to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, where they played pivotal roles in the founding of Hilton Head Hospital. Beryl's unwavering support and dedication to the hospital's success marked the beginning of her lifelong commitment to philanthropy and community service. She was a founding member of numerous Lowcountry organizations, most recently serving the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry and the Rotary Club of Hilton Head in leadership roles. Beryl's impact on her community was profound and her focus was always the health and well-being of children.

An avid gardener, Beryl took particular joy in tending her roses, each bloom a testament to her care and attention. Her home was a welcoming haven, reflecting her exceptional love of cooking and her ever-present eagerness to serve others.

However, Beryl's role as mother and grandmother may have brought her the greatest pride. This legacy of love and service lives on through her family: children Claudia Hull (Brentwood, NH), Nicole LaMotte (Banner Elk, NC), Kimberlee LaMotte (Bluffton, SC), Michelle Lawton (San Francisco, CA), and Peter LaMotte (Mount Pleasant, SC); 11 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Peter LaMotte.

Her family thanks all of those who have lovingly cared for her over the past four years.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis by the Sea Catholic Church, on May 13, at 10am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Community Foundation of the Lowcountry or to the charity of choice.

Beryl's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew her and were touched by her generosity, determination, spirit, and devotion.