Bertha Stevens, at 96
Bertha C. Stevens of Lincoln, NH, formerly of Hingham and Hull, went peacefully in the early morning hours of Sunday, June 23, and joined her beloved husband, Herbert. 
Growing up in Dorchester, Mrs. Stevens’ passion for the violin began under her father’s encouragement.  She had a great talent for music and went on to earn a BA in Music Education from Boston University, where in her small class of 11, she met the love of her life and husband of 68 years, Herbert Stevens. She was the youngest member of the Boston Civic Symphony and played under Arthur Fiedler.  She was a founding member of the Hingham Civic Orchestra where she served as Principal 2nd violin, Concert Mistress, soloist, and co-president with her husband.  She taught violin privately and at the Kingston School of Music with a vast array of dedicated students in whom she took great pride, retiring at age 90. She performed in string quartets and as a soloist, playing a blond violin made for her by local violin maker George Burton.
Mrs. Stevens also worked in the family hardware business, Stevens Hardware in West Roxbury, for many years during Christmas time.
There was nothing in the world more important to Mrs. Stevens than family time, which included many wonderful trips to Cape Cod, NH, cruises, and cheering her daughters on at concerts and horse shows around New England. She instilled the importance of working hard, enjoying what you had, and mostly being united as a family. She was everyone’s “Mom.” She opened her heart to all and always had time to lend an ear or give a hug when someone needed it.
Later in life, when residing in Lincoln, NH with daughter Carol, she volunteered at the hospital and Encore Thrift Store/Loon Ministries, and was active in the Linwood Senior Center.
Mrs. Stevens is survived by her loving daughters Carol A. Stevens, Susan Gaudette and husband Bob of Alton, NH, and her beloved cat, Felix. She was pre-deceased by her best friend and loving husband Herbert P. Stevens in 2012.
Services have been held.  Memorial donations may be made to Loon Mountain Ministries, 264 Main Street, Laconia, NH, 03251 or to New Hampshire Humane Society, 1305 Meredith Center Road, Laconia, NH 03246. See www.Keohane.com for online condolences.