Thomas Joseph Lillard of Newark, Del.

Thomas Joseph “Joe” Lillard died peacefully at home January 8, 2017 after a long illness. Born October 13, 1932 in Louisville, Kentucky to parents James Thomas and Rose Lillard, both previously deceased, he has lived in Delaware most of his life.

He retired from Asbestos Workers Local 42, where has been a lifetime member since age 18. He was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels for 15 years, and served on the St. John/Holy Angels Environmental Group for 20 years. A believer in civic engagement, he was an active member of Harmony Woods Civic Association for 20 years.

In retirement, he enjoyed Bible study and a variety of activities at St. John/Holy Angels, including helping to decorate the church for Christmas and Easter. His greatest joy was spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. The extended family’s annual trip to Ocean City, NJ and the large holiday gatherings at home were among his favorite pastimes. At those, “Pop Pop” could usually be found captaining the cleanup crew after meals for 40 or more family and friends.

He was dedicated to puttering around the house, fixing things, feeding backyard birds, and single-handedly encouraging neighborhood recycling efforts. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother and lifelong friend, Charles R. Lillard.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Doris (nee O’Connor) Lillard, his sisters, Glenda Kotowski and Edwina Richards and his seven children: Cherrie DiMatteo and husband, Anthony; Colleen Basilio and husband, Robert; Thomas Lillard; David Lillard; Timothy Lillard; John Lillard and wife, Helen and Matthew Lillard and wife, Susan. He also is survived by 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren

Visitation will be held at Holy Angels Church, 82 Possum Park Rd., Newark on Thursday, January 12 from 10-11 am. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11. Burial will be in All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital at https://www.stjude.org.

To send condolences, visit: www.dohertyfh.com 302-999-8277.