J. T. Morriss & Son Funeral Homes

Lilley, Melvin "Blue"

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Melvin Riedel “Blue” Lilley, 84, of Carson, died Wednesday, December 19, 2007. He was the son of the late John Jethro and Minnie Cora Riedel Lilley. He was predeceased by a brother Herman Howell “Sam” Lilley, and a sister, Mary Elizabeth Copper. A farmer and sportsman, he was a fifty year member of Edward Masonic Lodge #308, Stony Creek, District Deputy Grandmaster of the 29th Masonic District, fifty year member Royal Arch Masons of Virginia, member of Prince George County School Board for 38 years, member of Salem United Methodist Church. He was a gentleman with a competitive spirit, devoted to family, unfailingly loyal to friends. He is survived by his wife, Alice Mary Peebles Lilley; two daughters, Mary Dunn Conover and husband, Harold of Dinwiddie Co., Rebecca Anne Lilley of Carson; two granddaughters, Laura Lilley Ellis and husband, Jeff of Montpelier, VA and Mary Alice Flexon and husband, Luke of Carson; brother, John Jethro Lilley, Jr. of Waverly. A memorial service will be held 2:00 pm Sunday, December 23, 2007 at the Petersburg Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home & Cremation Service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Virginia or Salem Methodist Church, 19312 Templeton Rd., Carson, VA 23830.

Dearest Alice, Rebecca Anne and Mary Dunn,

We were so sad to learn of Blue's passing. He was the most soft spoken, gentle, and loving man. His presence in a room made everything safer. His love of the land and his family was evident in his every action.

Our deepest condolences and our thoughts are with each of you in this most difficult time.

Love always,

Anne, Willie, Ryan and Meghan

Posted by: Jerrianne Seger at December 23, 2007 10:59 AM

Dear Alice and Family,

I am so saddened to hear the news. I am mixed with the joy of knowing that Blue is now with Alice, Mama, Nancy, and those that have gone ahead of us to Heaven.

Please accept our heart prayers, thoughts, and love on your account.

Marcia, Dwight, Joel, Sam and Alaina, Sarah, Rebekah

Posted by: Marcia McAllister at December 22, 2007 11:02 AM

Alice, Mary Dunn, Rebecca Anne, and family: Brenda and I were sad of the news but rejoiceful that Blue is now with our Lord Jesus Christ. I remember Blue telling me when I bought the neighboring farm "that they don't make anymore land". Well, I would like to say the Lord never had a better servant in his name. Blue was as honest as the day is long. It was an honor to have known him. There was a quote from a famous General which said, "old soldiers never die, they just fade away". Blue will always be remembered for his dedication to his family, community, and his love for the land as an exceptional farmer and sportsman. He will always be watching in the early morning hours "as nature comes to life".
God Bless the Lilley family.

Posted by: David & Brenda Sturt at December 19, 2007 06:39 PM