Dorothy Irene Lilly

Dorothy Irene Lilly, a loving soul and cherished matriarch, passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on January 24, 1931, in Hillier, Ontario, Canada, Dorothy brought light and warmth to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

She graduated from Lakeview High School in Battle Creek, MI, with the Class of 1949. In August of 1952, she married the love of her life, Norman Lilly. They met like many young adults in those days, through mutual friends at a local dance hall. Together they had four children that they loved dearly.

Dorothy dedicated many years to the banking industry, where she eventually rose to the position of manager, earning the respect and admiration of her colleagues. She was not only a devoted professional but more importantly was an affectionate grandmother who created a haven for her grandchildren.

With a delightful sweet tooth, she enjoyed baking. Her kitchen was filled with laughter and freshly made goodies, a testament to her nurturing heart. Above all she was very family oriented and loved spending time with each of her family members.

Devoted to the simple joys of life, Dorothy thrived in the sunshine, embodying the essence of a sun goddess. Her radiant spirit was matched only by her love for animals, particularly cats, who found their own comfortable places in her warm home. An artist at heart, she was gifted in making plastic canvas crafts, creating beautiful pieces.

Dorothy's personality was as vibrant as her hobbies. Described by those who loved her as loving and full of life, she was someone who found happiness in the little things and spread that joy to everyone around her. She will be remembered not only for her sweet creations and sunny disposition but also for the gentle wisdom that she imparted to her family and friends.

Dorothy Irene Lilly leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and creativity that will endure in the hearts of those she cherished. She is missed deeply, but her spirit will continue to light the way for her loved ones, reminding them to embrace life fully and to take pleasure in the simplest of joys.

She is preceded in death by her husband: Norman; parents: Francis and Mary Meacham; and two brothers: Donald and Conrad Meacham.

Dorothy is survived by her four children: Vickie Lilly, of Portage; Norman (Connie) Lilly, Jr., of Battle Creek; Gary (Bridget) Lilly, of Grand Ledge; David Lilly, of Portage; eight grandchildren: Lindsay Stoyanoff, Justin Lilly, Carla Buttel, Branden Lilly, Carrie Lilly, Taylor Lilly, Korrin Lilly, and Sarah Schmucker; and eight great grandchildren: Kameron, Alexa, Paisley, Blake, Dewey, Jaden, Coral, Lily, and two more on the way; and several nieces and nephews.

Dorothy has been cremated and she will be buried at the North Athens Cemetery at a later date.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign her guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with her family.

The Lilly family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.