Thomas Mote Lilley, age 102 of Magnolia, DE, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Thomas was born August 14, 1923, in Newark, DE. He was the son of the late Thomas Leonard Lilley and the late Mary Elizabeth (Mote) Lilley.

Thomas was a proud Army veteran of World War II. He answered the call of duty with the 303^rd Signal Operations Battalion. Upon completing his military service, Thomas returned to the FBI Identification Division. He graduated from Beacom College with a degree in accounting. He retired from the University of Delaware after 20+ years, as a cabinet maker. With skilled hands he repaired and built furniture, millwork and even portions of buildings. His work was more than a career; it was a legacy of craftsmanship that will endure both at the University and at home.

Thomas was also a devoted member of the Newark United Methodist Church, where his faith and kindness touched the lives of many. His commitment extended to a remarkable 75+ year membership in the Masonic Lodge in Washington, D.C.

In his leisure time, Thomas found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was a talented woodworker, always eager to embark on a new project, especially if someone else was cleaning up. He found tranquility watching the fish swimming in his beloved koi pond. Baseball was another of his passions, and he could often be found rooting for any team that opposed Atlanta. He was an avid walker, finding new friends on almost every walk. He relished the satisfaction of a freshly mowed lawn, taking pride in cutting the grass and any wayward shrub or flowerbed.

Thomas’s love for animals was evident in his tender care for his cherished cats, as well as his daughter’s assortment of cats, dogs, and fish. Thomas’ legacy is one of love, skill, devotion, and the immeasurable impact he had on the lives he touched.

Thomas is survived by his daughter, Lisa Lilley Orth, and her husband Dr. Walter H. Orth, III; his grandchildren: Wesley H. Orth, and Helen E. Orth.

In addition to his parents, Thomas is preceded in death by his loving wife, Wilma Richter Lilley.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 11:00 am at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Thomas’ name may be made payable to “Tri State Bird Rescue and Research” and sent in care of R.T. Foard & Jones, Inc., 122 West Main Street, Newark, DE 19711.