Lillard Bilbrey

Lillard Bilbrey, 78, of Anderson, passed away December 5, 2014, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving and devoted wife, Peggy and daughters, Tammy and Kim. Before he drew his final breath peacefully, Jesus took his hand and led him to go and rest high on that Mountain in Heaven.

He was born August 14, 1936, in Livingston, TN and resided most of his life in Anderson, IN where he met Peggy, whom he married December 24, 1958. They are soon to celebrate 56 years together.

He loved being surrounded by family and friends. He enjoyed camping, bowling, playing cards, watching his Western channel on TV, and listening to Gospel and Bluegrass music. He always enjoyed his trips to Tennessee, “God’s Country”, to visit with family and dear friends. He loved attending Valley Grove Free Will Baptist Church.

Lillard cherished the time he had with his grandchildren. He would tell everyone they were his “Little Buddies”, so special to him.

He was a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite – The Grand Lodge of Indiana, Free and accepted Mason Lodge, Ovid #164 with the highest Mason Degree, 3rd Degree.

In addition to his wife and daughters, he is survived by sons-in-law, Tom Edgreen and Don Gibson; grandchildren, Wesley Gibson, Andrew Gibson – who told him “Grandpa, you’re my hero”, Madison Edgreen – who told him, “Grandpa, I love you so much”, Danielle Edgreen and Kyle Edgreen; brother Hoyt (Cewilla) Bilbrey; niece, Debby (Earl) Berkebile; several special nieces and nephews; his family in Tennessee, Aunt Jewel Hunter and several cousins.

Lillard was preceded in death by his father, Pete Bilbrey; mother, Delia E. (Bilbrey) Mandrell; and step-father, George Mandrell, who was like a father to him.

Funeral services will be 7 pm Tuesday, at Brown-Butz-Diedring Funeral Service & Crematory with Pastor Joe Roysden and Bill Ledbetter officiating. A Masonic Service will immediately follow.

Visitation will 3-7 pm Tuesday at the funeral home. A visitiation will also be held at the Hall Funeral Home in Livingston, TN, 5-8 pm on Wednesday. Burial will take place on Thursday at Carter-Bilbrey Cemetery in Livingston.

Memorial contributions may be made to Valley Grove Free Will Baptist Church or Carter-Bilbrey Cemetery.