Martha Lilly

Martha Louise Lilly passed away on 23 October 2020. The daughter of Donald and Blanche Bealor, she was born in Portsmouth Ohio on 6 May 1929. Martha is preceded in death by her parents; brother Donald; sisters Mary, Wilma, and Janet; son Harry Jr and her ex-husband and dear friend Harry Sr. Martha is survived by her sons Mark of Raytown, Missouri, Daron (Donna) of Lucasville, Ohio and John (Shelly) of Centerville, Ohio; daughter Fonda of Beavercreek, Ohio; and, four grandchildren Marisa, Devan, Derek, and Taylor; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Portsmouth High School, Martha worked at Shelby Shoe Factory and as a telephone operator before meeting Harry Lilly. Martha and Harry eloped across the river into Kentucky on 6 February 1949. They made their home in Union Township and Waverly before bringing their young family to Dayton in 1959. Martha was a stay-at-home mother, taking in ironing and babysitting to supplement family income. In 1967, Martha sought employment outside the home and went to work as an aide at the Dayton State Hospital (now 10 Wilmington Place). The state sent Martha to night school to earn her LPN. Although concerned she would not pass, she finished at the top of her class. After the closure of the State Hospital, Martha worked in several in-home aide positions before going to work for Greene County Children’s Services. In this capacity, Martha worked in several Group Homes. Martha took early retirement to care for her 91 year old mother. In late 1992, Martha relocated to Missouri to reside with her eldest son. Martha made numerous trips back to Ohio to visit friends and relatives—but mostly to see her grandchildren, leaving them with cherished memories of their Mamie. In recent years and in failing health, Martha spent time between Missouri and Ohio. We are so thankful for those times spent. Martha was a member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Restoration Branch. She enjoyed baking, crocheting, and participating in her Church’s numerous volunteer opportunities.

After a private cremation, Martha’s ashes will be interred at Garvin Cemetery in Union Township, alongside both Harry Sr and Harry Jr. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Dayton, whose outstanding care of our mother is so deeply appreciated.