Obituary

Donald Ray Lilly, 72, of Charleston, WV, passed away suddenly on March 15, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his father, Zane, and mother, Etta Lilly. Don is survived by his wife, Kathryn Lilly; daughters, Emily Lilly and husband Chris Garnes, and Lindsey Lilly and husband Brad Wright, and four loving grandchildren, all of Charleston. He is also survived by sister Susan and husband Bill Wright of Huntington, WV, and brother David and wife Gerri Lilly of Garland, TX.

Born in Beckley, WV, on April 2, 1951, Don’s family relocated to Martinsburg, WV, where he spent most of his childhood. He graduated as valedictorian from Martinsburg High School in 1969. He then went to West Virginia University where he earned his degree in Chemistry. Following graduation, Don worked briefly as an engineer for Dupont, formulating and testing water gel explosives. He visited Alaska where he helped supply 22 million pounds of explosives to build the Alaska pipeline.

After three years with Dupont, Don made a career change and applied to medical school. Once accepted, he joined the WVU School of Medicine in 1976. After graduation from medical school in 1980, he moved to Charlottesville, VA, where he served as Chief Resident during his internal medicine residency and completed his cardiology fellowship at UVA Hospital.

Don and Kathie married in November 1980, and welcomed daughters Emily and Lindsey while living in Charlottesville. The family relocated to Charleston in 1986 when Don joined Charleston Cardiology Group. For the next 30 years, Don worked as a cardiologist – serving his patients and the community with devotion and care. In 2016, Don took on the role of Associate Administrator at CAMC Memorial Hospital. He retired in 2021.

Don was deeply loved and respected by all who knew him. Throughout his years of service, Don exemplified the true essence of compassion and excellence in his work, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of his patients. His trusted partnerships with colleagues and coworkers were a testament to his professionalism and integrity, earning him the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Though his physical absence leaves a void that can never be filled, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. Don leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity that will continue to inspire and uplift us in the days ahead. While we mourn his passing, we take comfort in the memories we shared and the profound impact he had on our lives.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 21, 2024, at Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home, 1118 Virginia Street East, Charleston, WV. Burial will take place at 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2024, at Lilly-Crews Cemetery, 1136 Sand Knob Road, Nimitz, WV.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials gifts can be made to the American Heart Association on Don’s behalf.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.barlowbonsall.com .

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.