Robert Ulysses Lilly Sr., age 91, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma passed away on Wednesday, October 7, 2020. A visitation for Robert will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2020 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Service-South Chapel, 7720 South Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73159, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM.
Robert Ulysses Lilly Sr. was born on February 9, 1929 in Dunns, West Virginia to Robert and Gracie Lilly. He was the youngest of 3, growing up with 1 sister and 1 brother. After high school, Robert ventured off to pursue his talent in music. He had a natural gift in vocals and was a self-taught guitarist. Robert would sign up for any music gig he could land, in order to gain exposure. One evening, while playing a show at a nightclub, he met the love of his life, Betty Jo. They were married in the early 50’s. Shortly after, Robert was offered the opportunity to relocate to California to pursue his music career. As hard of a decision as it was, Robert chose to stay in Oklahoma, and together with Betty Jo, raise their 4 children. Robert was a hard worker, and in order to put food on the table, he spent many hours away from his family working as a plumber. Oftentimes, he would leave very early in the morning before the kids woke up, and would arrive back home after they were tucked in for the night; not once did he ever complain. For several more years, even after the kids were grown, Robert continued to work until the age of 88. Robert was a kind and loving man, who loved people. He was very outgoing, and always had a smile on his face. Robert leaves behind 3 children, 11 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, and numerous other relatives and friends. Robert was preceded in death by his wife Betty Jo Lilly; father Robert Ulysses Lilly and mother Gracie Virginia (Hutchens) Lilly; brother Joe Lilly and sister Loreana Farley; granddaughter Jessica Ann Burden, and great grandson Joseph Michael Allen Pierce.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AdvantageSouth.com for the Lilly family.
