Chandler Funeral Homes & Crematory Logo

302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

David Alfred Lilley

David A. Lilley, age 79, of Wilmington and Rehoboth Delaware, passed peacefully on June 1, 2019 with his wife Sue and daughter Tracy by his side. Born in Upland, Pennsylvania in 1939, David was the son of the late Betty and Alfred Lilley.

A veteran of the United States Navy, David proudly served our country on the U.S.S Murray until 1960. Following his military service, he then went on to work at Boeing where he had a long successful career retiring in 1995.

David enjoyed spending time at his beach home in Rehoboth, traveling to tropical destinations and doing handy work around his homes.  His favorite places to be were on the water fishing, relaxing in a beach chair on white sands and watching his grandson’s basketball games.  When not in those places, David could be found with his friends enjoying happy hour, riding around on his golf cart, watching his Dallas Cowboys’ Sunday football or cooking on his charcoal grill. Above all else, he simply enjoyed being surrounded by his cherished family and friends.

David created lasting memories with those he is survived by; his wife of 38 years, Susan Lilley, daughter, Tracy Lilley of Delaware, grandchildren Travis Whaler of New Mexico, Jordan Johnson of Florida, Simone Howie of Delaware and three great-grandchildren of New Mexico, sister, Betty Ann Charley (James) of Pennsylvania, brother-in-law and best friend Robert Lawson of Maryland, and many cherished nieces, nephews and friends. He will also be sorely missed by Bella, his beloved dog.

The family would like that when remembering David, that everyone think of him with a fishing pole in hand enjoying the sunniest of days with those that have predeceased him; his father and mother-in-law, Paul and Velva Lawson, son-in-law, Sean Howie and dear friend Brian Niebauer. In lieu of donations, on those sunniest days, spend time with those you love.

Family and friends are invited to services Monday, June 10, 2019 at noon at Chandler Funeral Home, 2506 Concord Pike with visiting hour from 11 am to noon. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at Delaware Veteran’s Post #1, 2535 Veterans Drive, Wilmington, DE 19810.

 

Funeral Services

Chandler Funeral Home

2506 Concord Pike

Wilmington Delaware 19803

Visitation from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm

Memorial Service at 12:00 pm

Celebration of Life will follow the service at Delaware Veteran’s Post #1, 2535 Veterans Drive, Wilmington, DE 19810

Condolences

    Carlee lit a candle and writes,
    I’ll never forget how your face lit up whenever you saw me. Our conversations will be forever held as precious memories. I can’t wait to talk about you when Luna grows up so Luna knows what a great man you were. We will always love and miss you Mr. Dave.
    06/06/2019 06:49 am
    Deacon Dan and Barbarba Bingnear writes,
    Sue, Tracey, Jordon, and Simone: Was so sadden to learn of Dave's passing. We are praying for your comfort, peace, and quick return to joy. May perpetual light shine upon Dave. May Dave's soul and all the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. We will remember the fun times had with Dave and the abundant love he bared for his family. Christ's PEACE upon you all.
    06/06/2019 07:27 am
    Kathy J Miller writes,
    Mr. Lilley, I have so many memories in such a short time. You were family to us. I don't think I will ever forget the night Miss Sue wanted a dog! It was a Friday night at 9. She wanted to go pick it up that night. All you kept saying and shaking your head, I am not getting a dog. She went to use the ladies room and looked at Preston and I and said, I guess I am going to have to get a dog. We talked her out of going that night. A few weeks later you got a dog. WOW, Bella became your dog and as everyone else in your life, she loved you and she was your girl. I knew you were in pain the last few months. I could tell by your face you were struggling. We will miss you but you will be with us every trip on LivinLarger out to the flounder spot or wherever Captain Miller takes us. See you in Heaven, With much Love, Kathy Kathy
    06/06/2019 08:16 am
    Joann Santiago lit a candle and writes,
    My deepest condolences to Tracy and her family..
    06/06/2019 10:05 am
    Helen lit a candle and writes,
    Dave you were a great brother in law. Fantastic uncle to Amanda and kyle. You will be truly missed. May God wrap his arms around sue Traci Jordan and simone. We will cherish your memories. God speed.
    06/06/2019 10:17 am
    Judy Marshall Cullen writes,
    I will always think fondly of my “Birthday twin” and all of the great times, with Dave, Will n Linda n Sue Silly, especially at the beach! Much love and comfort to the whole family ❤️😘🙏
    06/06/2019 10:31 am
    Nancy craun writes,
    Never knew Dave too well but from what I did know he was a special caring man. Lots of hugs sue
    06/06/2019 10:40 am
    Kirk & Maryann Bailey lit a candle and writes,
    Maryann & I want to express our sincere condolences to Sue and her family. Dave was one of those guys that you loved being around having a great time. We spend many happy hours together over the years and that was really quality friendship time. I will surely miss those precious moments that we had together laughing over a few brews and scotches. May Dave rest in peace in Gods Heaven Kingdom! He sure will be missed.
    06/06/2019 10:53 am
    Travis wahler lit a candle and writes,
    So sad to see you go, but I am glad that you are nolonger suffering. Although we were seperated geographically the times that we did spend together will always be cherished. You were always the type of grandfather that a man wants to make proud. You will be missed.
    06/06/2019 11:25 am
    Nancy craun lit a candle and writes,
    Did not know Dave very well but what I diid remember of him, he was very caring person and always made you feel welcome and like part of family.sorry I can’t be with you sue, we old Lancaster people are having some medical problems too. Sending hugs to you. Love Nancy from lancaster
    06/06/2019 11:29 am
    Tammy White lit a candle and writes,
    I will always remember your amazing laugh, the nickname i gave u Bover, sunburn on your boat, drinks at amvets and all those wonderful moments growing up with Tracy, and the foriegn exchange student. Keep smiling over us Dave, you will definitely be missed. Condolences to Sue, Bob, and Tracy along with the rest of the family.
    06/06/2019 11:54 am
    Jean Howie writes,
    Sue, Tracy, Jordan and to all Dave's family and friends I extend my Condolences. Dave was a calm, gentle man. I will always remember the kind words and love he had for his son in law (my nephew) Sean. I will keep all of you in my prayers that God will comfort you with peace, joy and the understanding that God never makes a mistake. My Love to all of you!
    06/06/2019 01:50 pm
    Jackie & Bill Palmer lit a candle
    06/06/2019 03:37 pm
    Mark & Dott Davidson lit a candle
    06/06/2019 05:38 pm
    Colleen Grimm writes,
    Our thoughts and prayers to you Sue and the whole family. It was such a pleasure to meet David when we were in Delaware in April. Brian talked about him often when we talked on the phone. David and Brian are celebrating in heaven right now.
    06/06/2019 07:53 pm
    Donna Hayden lit a candle and writes,
    Mayor Dave - I have so many fond memories of our times together. Your heart was so big and full that it showed in everything and everyone you loved. You had an amazing outlook on everything. I remember the first time you met my Mom and Aunt visiting us how you introduced yourself as the Mayor of Bay City. You always told us on Sundays to have a good week at work and would put our trash cans back without having to be asked. We always talked about music and Elvis and all the songs you loved...like Run Around Sue. Every time I hear Need You Now, I will think of my duet partner. You made a wonderful difference in my life and Brian’s and Carlee and Cole’s. I loved how when I laughed really hard, you laughed really hard, and only you and I could understand each other. Rest In Peace, my friend. 💜🇺🇸
    06/07/2019 12:59 pm
    Jeannie Maul lit a candle and writes,
    Dave, Davey Jones, Mayor, and Boyfriend. You are these and so much more to me. You have touched so many lives in a motivational and inspirational light and I doubt you even realize how much. I will always recall the weekend embraces so warm and strong, and huge smiles when I would call out to you "my boyfriend!" We are all so wondrously grateful to have had you in our lives; not just your adoring family, and your large life-time circle of friends, but also your extended family the BCFs (Bay City Friends). You exemplified living your best life. The innumerable and memorable happy hours, birthday parties, world event chats, cut-up jokes, belly laughs, weekends of fishing (and sometimes catching), just floating on the water with friends, and annual crab feasts. You were always at the center of everything with so much energy and life and fun. Most of us years younger could not keep up with you. I will forever treasure our afternoon together a few weeks ago talking, laughing and reminiscing. You talked with passion of your wonderful Miss Sue who was taking better care of you than anyone could imagine; you called it "a level above expectations." You talked how lucky you are for the wonderful and long life you have had, and even beach trips this summer. I have never known anyone to face cancer with such grace, optimism, dignity and bravery. Never ever did you complain even though I knew you were in pain. Thank you boyfriend, for the memories and many gifts of your friendship. Don't worry, we will all take good care of your treasures; Suzie, Tracy, Jordan and Bobby. Rest in the peace of the lord's arms and know we will be together one day.
    06/07/2019 07:16 pm
    Mandy Russell Maul writes,
    Davey, over the last 20 years I have learned a lot from you. Sometimes just observing, sometimes asking ridiculous questions to which your facial expression was hysterical, and sometimes just the two of us having real chats. No matter the topic I could always count on two things; to get a down right real answer an a kiss on the cheek with you saying you’re gonna do great babygirl. To say positivity was your specialty is an understatement. You and aunt Susie Q, always made me feel welcome, always asked “what’s new babygirl” and genuinely wanted to know, and u both taught me so so much about life, love and “letting it roll”. Thank you. You’ve left a huge impression on so many people’s hearts, especially mine. Thank you, I miss you.
    06/08/2019 05:34 am
    JoAnne and Gary Fuhrman writes,
    Dear Sue: So sorry for your loss. Only met Dave a couple of times but he seemed like a great person. Sincerely, JoAnne and Gary
    06/08/2019 11:49 am
    Kevin Howie lit a candle and writes,
    In the U.S. Navy, a hero is one who goes above and beyond what is expected of them to get the job done. Sacrificing their time, their talent and their spirit, all the while, protecting those who follow them. In military uniform and out of uniform, Pop was just that Hero to us all! Being a loving husband to Sue, an awesome father to Tracy and a mentor to Jordan. As a fellow Brother in Arms (military) and a gentleman of honor, Pop is a man my family has come to respect, admire and cherish. His presence will be missed, but his spirit will surely be felt living in us all, as we all continue to recall his emotional touch within our hearts. Please accept our condolences for Dave’s passing and know that you’ve been in our prayers throughout this trying time. As God continues to relinquish his peace and presence upon you, He will also give you rest and assurance to know that Pop is in good hands and Sean has his fishing buddy back with him. We love you Lilley family!
    06/09/2019 09:30 pm
    Dr. James Fierro lit a candle and writes,
    Dave, Was a good man. He was always pleasant and dignified. He never felt sorrow for himself despite his medical problems rather he thought of others first. I enjoyed seeing him, and it was a privilege being his doctor. May he rest in comfort and peace after a life well lived. His memory will live forever for those who had the good fortune to have known him. Dr. James Fierro
    06/10/2019 06:25 am

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

When you "Light a Candle" the candle image is posted with your condolence.

Thank You

Your online condolence will appear once approved by our site administrator.