Delmer Lilly

December 3, 1949 - March 10, 2012
Delmer Lilly


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“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

Delmer Lilly, 62 of Shallotte, NC passed away March 10, 2012 at home after a battle with cancer he fought heroically and never once gave up.

He leaves behind his wife and best friend of 34 years Brenda Mangus Lilly of Shallotte, NC; three loving daughters, Tara Lilly Williams of Reynoldsburg, OH, Sarah Lilly of Charleston, SC, and Jessica Lilly Roscoe of Shallotte, NC; His granddaughter and joy of his life, Alexis Diane Lilly of Charleston, SC, Grandson Jake Walker of Reynoldsburg, OH and expecting a 3rd grandchild later this year; Mother-in-Law Betty Reid of Lake Park, GA; Son-in-law Russell Roscoe of Shallotte, NC; Three brothers, John and wife Pat Lilly of Cleveland, OH, Steve and wife Cookie Lilly of Tornado, WV, and Troy and wife Carol Byrd of Charleston, WV; Two sisters, Judy Gagnon of Macedon, NY and Mary Legg of Nitro, WV. Sister-in-law Stella Adair of Cross Lanes, WV; Nephews Dennis Mangus of Shallotte, NC, Josh Hatfield and wife Nikki of Cross Lanes, WV, Steve Yoho and wife Jessica of Marietta, OH and Harold Yoho of Marietta, OH; Nieces Emmy Alkire and husband Darrin of Marietta, OH and Jennifer Becker and husband Nathan of Marietta, OH; Delmer was blessed with many friends in which he loved dearly.

Delmer is preceded in death by his mother, Adelphia Lilly, his father Coy Lilly, brother Gene Lilly and sister Janie Lilly.

Delmer was born December 3, 1949 in Charleston, WV. He was an operator at DuPont for 19 years and a Vietnam veteran, a true warrior. Delmer was an outdoorsman and had such a love for nature. He enjoyed golfing, boating, fishing, hunting and traveling the US in his motor home. But above all else, he just enjoyed being our “Pop”.

“To dwell in the hearts of those we leave behind, is not to die.”

Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to:
Delmer Lilly Fund
Post Office Box 3288
Shallotte, NC 28459

Please share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • March 16, 2012
    Larry Slavens says:
    Delmer, Rest In Peace my friend. I'll always remember the good times on Pioneer Drive, the "trailer", your Cuda and my Studebaker, the "Lilly Pad", and you know the rest that I can't remember. Say "Hello" to Gene and Dave for me. See ya soon. Brenda, I'm thinking of you and your family and wish you hadn't had to go through all of this. If there is "ANYTHNG" that you need done here in WV, just say the word.

  • March 13, 2012
    Carol Shivertaker Arban says:
    So sorry for your loss. May God fill your heart with comfort and peace.

  • March 13, 2012
    Brad Fulford says:
    I will always remember the good times watching baseball an just catching up on all things sports with my bud delmer..he taught me so many ways to appreciate life and don't hold back on anything, fight for anything u believe in!!..Ill always love u my good friend..RIP

  • March 13, 2012
    Nikki Hatfield says:
    I really miss ya and always will but i know ur in heaven lookin down watching over us. U welcomed me to the family with open arms, u were always such a good listener. U will b remembered. When i think of u i will think back to this past summer in the ocean u floating on that orange raft. That's how i will remember u. I love ya delmer i know when my time comes ill feel better just knowing u will b there to welcome me. Love and miss ya always

  • March 13, 2012
    John & Jill Snodgrass says:
    Sorry for your loss RIP Delmer.

  • March 13, 2012
    Josh Hatfield says:
    The loss of Delmer is felt throughout the world of his friends and family. He will always be here with us. Even though there has been a great distance between us all for so long he is and has been the only father figure I've ever had and i will always be thankful for the moments i had with him. If i am ever able to become half the man he was, half the husband and the father and the friend that he was and will always be, then i will feel like i have succeeded in life. He's twice the man any of us could hope to be.

  • March 13, 2012
    Kevin Farrell says:
    RIP Delmer, Thoughts and Prayers are with your family and loved ones.

  • March 13, 2012
    Patti Utt Molin says:
    My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I remember Delmar just like it was 1967! Patti Utt Molin

  • March 13, 2012
    John Arthur says:
    Brenda Im so SORRY for your Loss. I remember some good times with Delmar, an considered him a good friend. Again (Im Very Sorry) May OUR GOD Bless YOU an YOURS thru these times. John

  • March 13, 2012
    Ron and Jean Brown says:
    Ron and I worked with Delmer when he was at Belle. So sorry to here of his passing. He was a joy to work with and always spoke fondly of his wife and family. I pray the Peace of God on his family during this trying time but remember it is but a short time and you will be reunited with him in heaven for eternity.

  • March 13, 2012
    Dennie Withrow says:
    I am so sorry to hear about Delmer's passing and I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy. Delmer was my best bud in high school and I spent about as much time in his house out on pioneer drive as he did. Some of the family might remember the blond haired boy that was always there. I'll never forget running around with Delmer and all of the stuff we got in to. Everytime we would go to my house, which was few and far between, my mom would always say she was praying for us. Delmer once said he thought that helped influence him later to accept the Lord as his savior. Delmer is truly one I will be looking forward to seeing again someday in his new heavenly home. God Bless You All!!!

  • March 13, 2012
    Karen Sales Childers says:
    So very sorry for your families' loss and suffering..wish there were something I could say to make it all better.

  • March 13, 2012
    Bill Rhodes says:
    So sorry to hear about Delmore, haven't seen hem for many years I used to build drag race motors and me and Fred Bailey and Delmore would go to the races had lots of good time's!... PS haven't seen Stephen for a long time, either..

  • March 13, 2012
    Sarah Lilly says:
    My dad, my hero. I will carry your memory with me the rest of my days. What a remarkable man. I love you....keep my spot warm.

  • March 13, 2012
    Penny Dudley Wabich says:
    Only the Good Die Young - deepest sympathy's to family - May God be with you at this difficult time....

  • March 14, 2012
    R. J. (Rick) Fields says:
    Brenda: May our prayers comfort you at this time; and memories of better days with Delmer help to heal the hole within your heart(s)as you move forward! With Much Love, Rick (Nancy and Jacob) Fields

  • March 14, 2012
    Karen Sue Allen Watts says:
    I am so sad for the family, Delmar an I went to high school together, He was always the funnest, an really lovable guy. You will be saddly missed. Our family also has had lots of cancer. Lost my younger brother Keith Allen Sept.14th 2010,My oldest brother Aug.6, 1979 John Allen Jr. Delmar knew the Allen Family well. May God Bless you thru this differ time. I know its so hard to let go, let God have them. Karen Sue Allen Watts.

  • March 14, 2012
    Rhonda Hall says:
    Delmer will be missed by loved ones, family and friends. I went to school with Delmer at Nitro High School. We both graduated together. I will never forget all of the fun and crazy times we had. God has called him home. It seems so unfair but who are we to understand his Great Power and Wisdom. He is at Peace now, with no more pain and suffering. Be with Brenda and family at this time. Lift them up and give them the strength they need now and in later days to come. May God Bless you all.

  • March 14, 2012
    Geraldine Saunders Schronce says:
    I hadn't seen Delmer, since school days....He was always so sweet in school...I pray that God be with his family and Comfort them in this their time of need...God, said I will never forsake you...Hold onto that....May God Bless you all...Geri

  • March 14, 2012
    Linda Serreno says:
    Brenda, My heart is breaking for you and your girls. Peace and blessings, Linda

  • March 19, 2012
    Damon J. Lett Jr. says:
    Delmer - you left us too soon - but we will meet again before too long and then we can reminesce about the good old days once again. May your reward be everlasting.

  • March 14, 2012
    Pat McCormick Shumate says:
    I, like many others had not seen Delmar since high school days, but remember all the great times. Trust in the Lord and he will see that you remember only the good and not the bad times!!

  • March 14, 2012
    Troy & Barbara Miller says:
    Your family are in our prayers. May God comfort you at this time, and give you the faith and blessings neede to go forward with your lives. Delmer was a great guy. He will be missed. May God Bless You. Troy & Bobbi.

  • March 17, 2012
    Jessica Lilly Roscoe says:
    I had the privilege of having the best dad any girl could ever hope to have. I miss you so much Pops. So many times this week I have needed your advice, and then it hits me all over again that I can't call you or stop by like I've always done. I would give anything to have one more good day on the boat with you and our family or to be able to go out West one more time. There was so much left to do... I love you and miss you always... Love, Your baby-Jess K

  • March 17, 2012
    Brenda Lilly says:
    Today is one week since your passing and we all miss you terribly. I would have traded places with you at anytime to stop all the suffering you went through.I wish i could have had one more day with you... i love you and will always carry you in my heart...

  • March 15, 2012
    Greg Spencer says:
    So sorry to hear of Delmer's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you as you go through this difficult time. We used to run around together some and hung out with everyone at Cross Lanes. He was proud to be a "mountain boy" as we were called then. I know he will be missed by everyone that came in contact with him. Delmer was a hilarious guy with as infectious smile. Godspeed.

  • October 13, 2013
    Scott says:
    I would like to convey my sincere condolences to the family, whom I know to be truly good people. I hope all of you are well.

  • March 13, 2016
    Cookie says:
    R.I.P. Delmer and Steve. I know you two are having a good time and waiting for the family to join you ! We miss and love you !

  • March 12, 2012
    Alan Layne says:
    So sorry for your loss. Delmer was a great guy. My thoughts and prayers are with you

  • March 12, 2012
    Margaret Williams says:
    Brenda, Jess, Sarah and Lexi, I am so so sorry for your loss. Please know that I am praying for each of you. All my love, Margaret I bet Tony and Delmer are catching up!

  • March 12, 2012
    Jon and Linda Womack says:
    Loved ones are ours but a little while, but, fear not, for we shall be reunited in the Kingdom of the Lord..that Heavenly house not built with human hands..and great shall be the celebration at the reunion of family.

  • March 12, 2012
    debbie cooper says:
    Our deepest sympathy his smile and laugh will never be forgotten always a good time the cooper family

  • March 12, 2012
    Luanne and Jerry says:
    Brenda,and girls, we love you and our hearts are breaking...our thoughts and prayers are with you - we are here for you....

  • March 12, 2012
    Danny Vincent says:
    Brenda and family, Sorry for your loss, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Vinny and Susan

  • March 12, 2012
    Peggy Bailey Wallace says:
    Brenda and girls, I am so sorry for your loss. Delmar was a great guy. I met him in 7th grade and he always set behing me in class. He told people if I hadn't let him cheat over my shoulder he would have failed science class. He was always so happy and friendly. He was like a big brother to me and of course, Fred had him to spy on me. LOL. but thats ok he was a good friend. I hadn't seen him in awhile but still felt like he was my friend. My hearts breaks for you guys and wish I could be there to help you through this. Try to lean on the Lord and let Him help you through. He will be watching over you. Love and prayers.

  • March 12, 2012
    Nancy Cain says:
    God will give you comfort at this time of grief. Thoughts and Prayers for you Brenda and family.

  • March 12, 2012
    Joyce&Johnny Brown says:
    You all are in our prays and our heart.

  • March 12, 2012
    Susan Crews Groscup says:
    With much love and fond memories. Be at peace my dear friend. To Brenda and girls, I'm so sorry that you have to go through this. Try to find some comfort in the Lord though I know you have many questions in your hearts.

  • March 12, 2012
    Debbie Trickett says:
    Tara and family,My thoughts and prayers are with you. May your memories give you strength now and in the future.

  • March 12, 2012
    Kim Edgell says:
    Sarah, I am so sorry about your loss. I know it is hard on all of you. Please try to be strong for your mom and lexi. Just remember the Edgell family loves you and we are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. I feel your pain and the pain lexi is going through. They say time heals all, hopefully this is true. Love You

  • March 12, 2012
    seth humphrey says:
    hes a friend that i will miss dearly and cant wait to see him again in a much better place

  • March 12, 2012
    ann toney hapney says:
    Brenda - Thinking of you and your family. It must be so overwhelming. I wish I had words to help but they all fall so useless. Delmer was a good man but you know that better than anyone. Please take care of yourself.

  • March 12, 2012
    DEBBIE BAILEY JOHNS says:
    BRENDA, SARAH, JESSICA; I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. I PRAY THAT YOU WILL FIND COMFORT IN YOUR MEMORIES, AND THE GOOD TIMES YOU HAD. DELAMR WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU IN YOUR HEARTS AND SPIRIT.

  • March 12, 2012
    Clint B. Humphrey says:
    A true and wonderful friend that I was blessed to know , will see you in heaven my friend !

  • March 12, 2012
    Lisa Allen says:
    Sara, I'm so sorry for your families loss and the pain you are dealing with. I wish there was some way to easy your suffering but only time can do that. I'm thinking of you. Lisa Allen 910-232-0414

  • March 12, 2012
    April Pegram says:
    He was a great man, and he will be missed by many. I am so sorry for his loss. His family will remain in my prayers.

  • March 12, 2012
    Mary Hinzman Stroud says:
    Love and prayers to your family.

  • March 12, 2012
    Lenzie Caines Lovejoy says:
    So sorry for your alls loss ~ U r & have been in my Prayers ~ I have GREAT Memories of Delmar ~He taught me ALOT about Playing Softball ~ Thinking of you ALL ~ *

  • March 12, 2012
    Caroline Rhodes Greenlee says:
    Brenda and family, I am so sorry for your loss of Delmar. He was such a great guy. I have not seen him since high school but I remember what a special man he was. He always made us laugh a lot and I know you have such wonderful memories of his life with you all. May God Bless each one of you as you travel down this long road of sorrow. You are in my thoughts and prayers. He is now your special guardian angel free of pain and walking those streets of gold.

  • March 12, 2012
    Patti Michaelson says:
    Delmer was a wonderful friend. I will never forget his kindness and compassion that he showed me during a difficult time in my life. I will never forget his dedication to coaching my daughter and all the rest of the girls on the Cross Lanes softball team. He made it fun! I hate that he had to pass away but I know he is in Heaven with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, where there is no pain or sorrow.

  • March 13, 2012
    John and Pat Lilly says:
    R.I.P. Little brother, We will always love you.

  • March 12, 2012
    Elaine Parrish says:
    My love to you all always. Delmer will missed by so many people. He was always so accepting and generous with Nicole and Logan, inviting them to be part of your family. I love you all.

  • March 12, 2012
    MICHAEL (DOC) PROCTOR says:
    This is DOC PROCTOR. DELMER hired in with me at DUPONT (BELLE) in 1981. I'm so sorry to hear about one of my best buddies. I hated it when he transfered to Fayetteville. "THIS IS THE TRUTH" , I retired 6/30/2010 and I quite often have dreams of working at DUPONT. Mostly with my most recent guys. "BUT" one night this past week, I again dreamed of DUPONT, and very distinctly remember "DELMER" was there and was kidding around,he and I were very quick witted.(DOC & DELMER). I know now that that dream was meant for me. THANK GOD! I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope DELMER was saved, and I'll see him in HEAVEN. I'm thankful that he's not suffering anymore. GOD BLESS YOU BRENDA, AND FAMILY. DOC PROCTOR LIGHT1210@AOL.COM

  • March 13, 2012
    pat sharp says:
    Dear Delmar, Even though it has been many a year since we saw one another. Time and distances, never changed. I will always remember you as a good friend, someone to share a laugh with, even through some hard, sad times. But we shared the joys of youth once, many a year ago. To Brenda and his family, there's nothing I can say that you don't know already. Being he was a Vietnam Vet, he was always there to take care of his brothers, when they returned home. And in doing so he taught us, about what it was like, and to not point fingers until you had walked a mile in his and their shoes. It has been years since I had seen or talked to him, but nor distance or time erased the respect and love and friendship that we had over the years. WE lost a good person today, but I sleep well knowing your husband, your father and your grandfather watches over me tonight, as he did so often during the Vietnam war and the 70s. God Bless You and May God's healing help you though these awful days ahead. -pat sharp

  • March 13, 2012
    steve and cookie lilly says:
    R.I.P. DELMER. YOU ARE SURELY GOING TO BE MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW YOU AND WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH. I KNOW YOU WILL BE WAITING FOR ALL YOUR LOVED ONES ON THE OTHER SIDE.