James Toy Lilly

     James Toy Lilly, 90, passed from his earthly life at home surrounded with love and prayers on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

     He was born July 29, 1935 in Flat Top, West Virginia, the son of William Toy Lilly and Neta Moye Lilly. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Tonya; sister, Anna Geiger; and brothers, Samuel, Lando, Billy, and Jackie Lilly.

     James is survived by his wife, Bobbie Horrell-Lilly; daughters, Frances Phoenix, Brenda Cox, and Susan Wyatt (Allen); son, Jason Lilly; stepchildren, Carey E. Horrell, Jr. (Bekki), Gene Horrell (Kaye), Vickie H. Johnson, and Kevin Horrell (Elizabeth); five grandchildren; five great grandchildren; sister, Donna Knight (Danny); brothers, Daniel Lilly (Joanne) and  Dewey Lilly; many extended family members and friends.

     James served his country proudly for over 20 years in the US Air Force, retiring as a Technical Sergeant having served two tours of duty in Vietnam and also served in Korea.

     He had a strong Christian faith was a faithful member of White Lake Baptist Church.

     James was quiet in manner, a loving and caring husband to Bobbie, and an all-around  good man. Watching baseball was a favorite pastime with the Baltimore Orioles and the Washington Nationals being the teams James always cheered for.  His presence on this earth will surely be missed.

     The funeral service will be 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at White Lake Baptist Church, 7636 NC Hwy 41, White Lake/Elizabethtown, NC 28337. The Rev. Carey Horrell, Jr. will conduct the service. The family will receive friends at 12:00 p.m. at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Woodcock Cemetery with full military honors accorded by the US Air Force Honor Guard.   

     Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

     A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.

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