Dorothy Elizabeth Lilly

DOROTHY ELIZABETH (GILL) LILLY was born on October 15, 1939 in Concord, North Carolina. She was the only child of the late Willie Thomas and the late Johnsie Odell (Parker) Gill Powell. She departed this life peacefully on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. At an early age, Dorothy married James William Lilly, Jr., who preceded her in death. From their union, six children were born. In 1959, Dorothy and James moved their young family to Baltimore, Maryland, where she joined Calvary Baptist Church on West Biddle Street in July of that same year. Upon joining Calvary, Dorothy quickly connected with the Ames, Bailey, and Evans families, who lovingly embraced her family of eight as their own, forming a lifelong bond that endures to this day. She served faithfully under the leadership of four pastors: Rev. Lorenzo Graves, Jr., Rev. James K. Ames, Pastor Haywood Robinson III, and Pastor Stephen Russell, Jr. Dorothy’s devotion to ministry was unwavering. She served in numerous capacities including Vacation Bible School, Pastor’s Aide, the Julie Reed Nurse’s Unit, and the Prime Age Ministry. A gifted singer with a powerful tenor voice, she was a passionate worshipper who praised the Lord through music. She sang on multiple choirs including the Voices of Calvary, Baptist Convention Choir, the Pat Kelly Crusade Choir, the Billy Graham Crusade Choir, the Staton and Taylor Ensemble, the Thomas A. Dorsey Choral Union, and the United Baptist Missionary Choir. For over twenty years, Dorothy faithfully attended the Hampton University Ministers’ and Choirs’ Conference, participating in the concluding concert choir each year. Her love for music and ministry remained central to her life. Dorothy was a devoted stay-at-home mother until her youngest child began school. She then began working at St. Agnes Hospital as a Nursing Technician/Aide, where she served with compassion and excellence for more than 34 years. After retirement, she remained active by joining the Woodlawn Senior Center, where she became a beloved member. Known for her lively spirit and commitment, she helped coordinate classes, activities, and trips— often arriving via mobility bus with determination and joy. Her love for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great great-grandchildren was immeasurable and deeply felt by all who knew her. Dorothy leaves to cherish her memory: her children, James Angelo III (Debbie), Deborah Roxann, Derwin Jerome (Ella), Tony Andre (Carolyn- deceased), Eric Wayne, and Janet Michelle (Alex); grandchildren, James Angelo IV (Kimmie), Keshia Minyon, Kia Dion (Samuel), Bruce Lamar (deceased) (Kendra), Akeem Rashard, Ade’ Salim William, Brian Lavon (deceased), Asha’ Safiya, and Najee Ameer Bilah; greatgrandchildren, DeAngelo (Jasmea), Brelle, Qiyonte’, Kayla, James V., Samuel, Iyonna Chyna, London, Bruce Lamar II, and Bryce Lavon I; great-great-grandchildren Jordan, Mason, and Raelynn; siblings, Garry Powell (Walda), Shelton Gill, and Brenda Morton (one brother, Douglas Powell preceded her in death); and sister-in-love, Dr. Eva L. Ratliff. Over the years, Dorothy formed a deep and lasting bond with her dearest friends, Patricia Lawson, Bernice Parker, and James Evans, whose steadfast friendship was a cherished part of her life. She is also survived by a host of loving cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends. Dorothy Elizabeth Lilly lived a life full of faith, family, and service—leaving behind a beautiful legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

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Dorothy Elizabeth Lilly

October 15, 1939 - July 1, 2025