He was born in Rhodell, West Virginia on October 15, 1928 to Sam and Nellie
(Ramsey) Lilly. After graduating from High School, he joined the U.S. Army and
was stationed in Germany from 1946-1948. He was recalled to active duty in
September of 1950 serving as a courier on General MacArthur’s staff. He traveled
extensively between Japan and Korea, earning two Bronze Stars and was
Honorably Discharged in May of 1952. He later joined the Air Force Reserve and
retired from the Reserves as a Major. One of his most notable recollections was
marching with his unit in the funeral procession of President John F. Kennedy in
November of 1963. He worked for the U.S. State Department in the Republic of
South Vietnam from 1968 to 1974. He moved to Hawaii in the fall of 1975,
working in property management until his retirement.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Catherine H. Lilly, nee Hartle, of
Leitersburg, MD, his eldest son Brian (Theresa) and youngest son Timothy, three
Grandchildren and three Great-Grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s
Association in Tom’s name.
