Dorothy Ann Lilly

Dorothy Ann Lilly, age 80, of Canton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026. A lifelong resident of Canton, Dorothy lived a full and meaningful life centered on faith, family, and unwavering dedication to those she loved.

Dorothy was born on September 23, 1945, in Cincinnati, Ohio, the third child of Ossie B. Cone and Dorothy Lee Cone. At a young age, she moved with her family to Canton, where she was raised and would go on to build a life rooted in strong values and community. She attended Canton Local Schools and graduated from Canton South High School in 1963. 

Shortly after graduation, Dorothy married her high school sweetheart, Richard Lilly Sr., and from this union two sons were born, Richard Lilly Jr. and Raphael I. Lilly, who became the center of her world. At the age of 25, Dorothy began a long and dedicated career with Georgia-Pacific, where she worked faithfully for 40 years before retiring. 

Dorothy’s faith was a guiding force throughout her life. After accepting Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, she became a devoted member of Faith Family Church, where she worshipped and served faithfully for over 20 years. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ossie B. and Dorothy Lee Cone, and her beloved sisters, Elizabeth Williams, Minnie Jones, Ruby Metcalf, and Inez Cone. Dorothy leaves to cherish her memory her loving sons, Richard Lilly Jr. and Raphael I. Lilly; her treasured grandchildren, Mariah Lilly, Robyn Lilly, Jalen Lilly, Miles Lilly, Quincy Lilly, and SaNaa Lilly; and her adored great-grandchildren, Jada Sains, Olivia Price, Lauret Price, and Sa’Ron Price. She is also survived by her siblings, Isaiah Cone, Atlas Marie Hall, Grace (Doug) Gray, Randy Cone, Uriah Cone, Arlene Cone, and Treva (James) Poole, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. 

Dorothy had a vibrant personality and a joyful spirit. She was an avid fan of football and basketball, proudly cheering for her favorite teams, the Dallas Cowboys and the Chicago Bulls—especially during the era of Michael Jordan. She took great pride in her home, affectionately calling it her “mansion,” and found peace and happiness working in her yard, cutting grass and planting beautiful flowers. 

Above all, Dorothy was a woman of action when it came to love. She was deeply devoted to her family and known for her generosity, often giving not only her time but anything she had to help others. Her kindness, strength, and selflessness left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. Dorothy Ann Lilly will be remembered for her faith, her warmth, her resilience, and the love she so freely gave. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved.