Delbert Burton Lilley, born on March 29, 1932 in Olympia, Washington. He spent his early years enjoying life on the bay, where he created cherished memories with family. At the age of 17, he proudly enlisted in the military, beginning his service in the U.S. Navy. During this time, he met the love of his life, Betty Lou Harlin (who preceded him in death), and they were married on May 26, 1951.
A short time later, Delbert transitioned to the U.S. Air Force, where he continued serving as a Munitions Weapons Specialist. He retired with honors in 1973, recognized & honored for his strong attention to detail and professional expertise, earning the respect of those he worked with. His military career took him places such as Turkey, Vietnam, Guam, Hawaii, Okinawa & stateside assignments.
After retiring from the military, Delbert and his family moved to the Snowflake-Taylor area, where he began a second career for the State of Arizona; as a diesel mechanic in the Department of Transportation. He transferred to Kanab, Utah where he continued working for the State of Arizona, retiring in 1996.
Passionate about genealogy, Delbert and his wife chose to relocate to Hamilton, Montana to continue working on family history. Later in years, wanting to be closer to family, they relocated back to Fredonia, Arizona. He passed away peacefully in his home on July 31, 2025 at the age of 93.
A true outdoorsman, Delbert had a passion for nature. He was an avid hunter and fisherman; his interests and hobbies were many. He was a wealth of knowledge and always took time to teach others, especially his family, important life skills. His greatest desire was to see loved ones prepared & safe.
Delbert is survived by his children: Diane Bundy (Andre), Patricia Jensen (James) and Mark Lilley (Griselda); 19 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Richard Lilley and many nieces and nephews. We cannot forget to mention his loyal companion, Cowboy Jack, who remained faithfully by his side.
A viewing will be held August 15, 2025 (Friday evening) from 6:00-8:00 PM (UT Time) at Mosdell Mortuary in Kanab. A graveside service will be held Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 10:00 AM (AZ Time) in the Fredonia Arizona Cemetery.
Mr. Lilley was a favorite at Houston’s over the past few years. We loved having him come in and enjoyed the sweet conversations. He would talk about his sweetheart, Betty and how much he missed her. We will miss him, but are excited for the reunion they must have had!
Delbert was so easy to be close too. A true family man. He was so welcoming to me when we met. I loved that. Smart as a whip. He clear minded to the end. I am so thankful to of had the privilege to know him.
Uncle Del was one of my favorite Uncles I loved visiting with him at the reunions and then chatting with him on fb he always checked in on how mom and I were doing I will definitely miss our conversations. I love you Uncle Del.
My uncle Del what a treasure he was. Every summer we went down to their place for vacation best time we had exploring the different places and the stories that we got to enjoy you will be forever in my heart I miss you ! Love Rozetta
My uncle Delbert was amazing. He was loving, kind, soft spoken. He was my dad,s next to the youngest brother. I will miss him as I do my father, daily. Rest in piece Uncle Delbert. You are home with siblings and your beloved bride. Love Oleta
So sorry to read of Delbert’s passing. What a dear and lovely man he was. I cared for both Betty and Delbert’s hair from the time they moved to Montana. I’m blessed to of called them friends.