Melton Guy Lilley

Colonel Melton G. "Feet" Lilley - Christ-follower, devoted husband, respected father, adored grandfather, baby brother, and true friend - was called home to be with his Lord on May 30, 2025, at the age of 90.

He was born on July 22, 1934, in Williamston, NC, to Raleigh Daniel Lilley and Martha Roberson Lilley, the fourth and last of their children, making him the baby of the family to brothers George ("Duke") and Dan ("Man") and sister Rhoda ("Pearl"). On May 29, 1959, he married Leona Coltrain Lilley; they moved to Jacksonville, NC, raised two children (Robert and Sandy), and were happily married for 64 years.

Not many knew his real name; he was "Feet" to everyone. The history of that name is a bit of a mystery, but the closest origin ever provided is that his family always called him "a sweet boy," with "sweet" pronounced in baby-talk. As he grew into a young man, "sweet boy" became simply "Feet."

Feet joined the United States Marine Corp in 1959, served faithfully for 30 years, and retired with the rank of Colonel. He and his family were stationed at Marine bases in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia as well as Okinawa, Japan. He was also stationed in Japan and Puerto Rico on separate unaccompanied tours (without family), and he served in Vietnam. Throughout all of their travels, Feet and Leona always called Jacksonville, NC, home.

Feet's hobbies included carpentry and working on property he owned in Onslow County. His carpentry skills are unsurpassed, and he tended a "garden" that many might call a small farm. Before moving to Charlotte, NC, to be closer to family, Feet and Leona were members of Jacksonville Christian Church, where he served as an elder.

Many that knew him may have been surprised upon learning that he was a United States Marine, due to his humble and generous nature. He was one of the best friends a person could ever have, offering his time and services to anyone in need without hesitation. Throughout his entire life, he was indeed a sweet man.

Feet is preceded to glory by his parents, his brother George and his sister Rhoda, his cherished wife Leona, and his beloved daughter Sandy. He is survived by his brother Dan, his son Robert (Amorette), and his son-in-law Duran Smith. He will be missed by his grandchildren Courtney Cole (Dylan), Caitlyn Brown (Michael), Brittney Tillett (John), Nick Lilley (Sara), Alyssa Webb (Richard), and Niki Smith. He has ten great grandchildren.

A service will be held at Secrest Grove Baptist Church, located at 4505 Weddington Rd in Monroe, NC, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 12:00pm, with Pastor Jeff Whitecotton officiating. A meal will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to Secrest Grove Baptist Church at the address above.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcewenmonroechapel.com for the Lilley family.

McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe is honored to serve the family of Colonel Melton G. "Feet" Lilley.