Francis Joseph Lilley

Joe was born on October 9, 1934 in Oakland, California. He was the oldest of five siblings. He joined the Air Force and was stationed in Victoria, Texas where he met his wife Elidia Rivera. Together they have seven children, 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Joe is survived by his wife, Elidia Lilley, children, Joe A. Rivera, Christine Lilley, Laura Lilley, Anna Hirsch, Vince Lilley, Michael J. Lilley, Rachel Lilley; son in-law, Dennis Smith; his grandchildren; Shawn Brower, Shane Smith, Krystal Burns, Erica, Monica, Lesley, Lauren and Tessa Hirsch, Dominique and Gabriella Lilley, and Caitey Lilley, and his 3 great grandsons, Mason Brower, Chase Langer, and Alton Smith; his brothers, Michael Lilley, Frankie Lilley, and sisters, Carmen Cruz and Gay Dutra. Joe is preceded in death by his eldest daughter, Mary Teresa Smith.

He served 25 years in the United States Air Force. During his service he served in the Korean War and the Vietnam War. He was stationed at various Air Force Bases all over the world. He worked through the ranks as a dedicated serviceman and retired Msgt. at Ellington A.F.B. in 1976. After his military service, he worked with UPS for 20 years and retired.

After two retirements, he worked at Del Lago Country Club. Joe was well liked and a dedicated worker. He was a devoted father and loving grandfather. He was a knowledgeable man with history and would love to tell his stories.

Pallbearers: Vince Lilley, Michael J. Lilley, Chris Domangue, Hector Gonzales, Joe Rivera, and Jack Eannarelli.

Visitation for family and friends will be held at American Heritage Funeral Home in Houston, Texas, on Sunday October 17, 2010 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Funeral Services for Francis J.F. Lilley, 76, of the Woodlands, Texas will be held on Monday October 18, 2010 at 10:00am in the Chapel at American Heritage Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Houston, TX at the National Veterans Cemetery. After funeral services, a reception will be held at the Knights of Columbus, 29327 S. Plum Creek Spring, Texas 77386

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the medical staff at the Michael DeBakey VA Hospital and the Odyssey House Hospice in Conroe.