Elzie Rose Lilly

DURHAM- Elzie R. Lilly, Jr., 92, passed away on Sunday, July 12, 2015 at his home in Durham. He was born in Durham, NC on January 5, 1923. Elzie was a devoted and loving husband to his wife Edna of 69 years and their sons Phillip and Greg. He had a very special relationship with his granddaughter, Laura, and he cherished his great-grandsons, Matthew and Luke. He will be remembered as a tall, handsome, quiet, and kind man that was loved and respected by all those that knew him. Elzie put his family first and spent his life making sure his family and others were well cared for at all times.

Elzie was in the United States Navy during World War II and served on the Navy ship, the USS Azimech. After his military service he worked at the American Tobacco Company and retired after 43 years as the Head of the Machine Shop. He was a volunteer Fireman with Bethesda Volunteer Fire Department and served as Chief. He was an active member of the Ruritan Club for more than 50 years. For most of his life he was a member of the Bethesda Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon.

Elzie is survived by his beloved wife, Edna Copeland Lilly, son Greg Lilly; granddaughter, Laura Willard and great-grandsons, Matthew and Luke. He is preceded in death by his son Phillip Lilly; his brothers, Thomas, Harold and H. Laverne Lilly; and his parents Mr. and Mrs. Elzie R. Lilly, Sr.

There will be no visitation. There will be a graveside service at Brier Creek Memorial Gardens on Wednesday, July 15 at 2:30 p.m. Family will receive friends after the service at the home. Online condolences can be made at www.hudsonfuneralhome.com.