William Dodd Lilley

William D. Lilley died in Mesa, AZ on August 8, 2015, at the age of 68 after a heroic 12 year battle with cancer. Bill is survived by his sister Phyllis Lilley of Belle Glade, FL. He is preceded in death, by his father William B. Lilley and his mother Stella A. Lilley of New Fairfield, CT.

Bill was born on April 30, 1947, in Danbury, CT to William and Stella and grew up in New Fairfield, CT. He graduated from Central Catholic High School in Norwalk, CT in 1965. He attended the University of Main, Orono, for a Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry in 1970, a Master’s Degree in Forestry in 1975 and a Master's Degree in Public Administration in 1996.

He stayed in Maine to work for Georgia Pacific as a Forester and later returned to the University of Maine, where he worked first as a Graduate Assistant, then as an Instructor and finally an Associate Extension Specialist.

Bill was very proud of his accomplishments as a Boy Scout; he achieved the status of Eagle Scout, continued in the organization as a leader in Connecticut and Maine, and in 1965 was a founding member of Alpha Delta National Fraternity at the University of Maine. Alpha Delta was envisioned by the Boy Scouts of America as a fraternity dedicated to developing leadership by providing service; forging the bonds of brotherhood, regardless of race, creed or background; and developing an understanding that service isn’t an obligation, but a higher calling.

Bill's joy was in volunteering. He wrote, “When I retired (in August 1987) from the University of Maine … I made the decision to purchase an RV and do volunteer work involving the management of Natural Resources. During my life and career, I have been helped by many people. Volunteering helps me to pay back.” This included New Kent Forestry Center (VA), George Washington National Forest Trout Pond Recreation Area (WV), John Pennycamp State Park (FL), Pohick Bay Regional Park (VA), Anastasia State Recreation Area (FL) and James Island County Park (SC). Bill traveled to all 50 states before settling in Mesa, AZ.

He was an active and dedicated member of the Squires service organization that helps support special programs at Emerson Elementary School in Mesa.

The viewing is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 18th at Green Funeral Home in Danbury, with a graveside service to follow at 11:30 p.m. at Mountain View Cemetery in New Fairfield. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Squires, Tower Point, 4860 East Main St., Mesa, AZ 85205. The family thanks his wonderful friends and caregivers for their care and efforts.