Obituary: George R. Lilly
George R. Lilly
PORTLAND – George “Dick” R. Lilly, 88, of Portland, passed away on Aug. 8, 2026. Born on March 14, 1938, in Portland, he was the son of George and Frances (Young) Lilly, and he remained deeply rooted in the community that shaped him. He graduated from Deering High School in 1956, and began working as a truck driver before answering a call to public service by joining the Police Academy in 1960.
George was appointed a Portland Police Officer on July 18, 1960. Through steady dedication and patient perseverance, he earned the rank of detective on July 6, 1980, and retired on Feb. 3, 1981. His working life reflected a resilient commitment to providing for others – both at home and in the broader community. While serving with the Portland Police Department, he also worked at the Portland Airport Limousine Company in the Jetport, and later with Eastern Security Systems, which became Protection One. Beginning in 1979, he volunteered for many years with the Falmouth Fire Department, offering the same gentle reliability and loyal presence that so many came to count on.
On Feb. 11, 1961, George married Leola Madore at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception in Portland. Together they built a family life defined by devotion and steadfast care. A beloved and dedicated family man, he adored his five children and grandchildren and took special pride in teaching them the value of hard work. In countless everyday ways – especially in always transporting family members – he showed a generous spirit and a kind-hearted attentiveness that made others feel safe, supported, and cherished.
George’s curiosity and quiet skill were evident in the interests he pursued with care and consistency. He built his own HAM radio and was a Full Member of the American Radio Relay League beginning in 1955. He enjoyed tracking the weather with his own weather station and listening to his police scanner—pastimes that suited his steady nature and practical mind, and that often left room for the warm humor that friends and family remember with affection.
His compassionate concern for others extended beyond his own household. George volunteered at Preble Street Resource Center, offering his time in a way that reflected a gentle decency and a sincere desire to help.
George was predeceased by his wife, Leola; his parents, George and Frances; and his brother, Brian Lilly.
He is survived by his five children, Darrell (Jessie) Lilly, Michael (Mary) Lilly, Lisa (Tom) Moody, Wendy (Jan) Boyle, and Heidi (Tim) Goodine; 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends who were like family. Above all else, Dick loved his family more than anything.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, Aug. 20, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St., Portland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, Aug. 21, at 11 a.m., at St. Pius X Church, 492 Ocean Ave., Portland, followed by a catered reception at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home.
A special thanks to the staff at Park Danforth for their compassionate care, especially Vicki, Lynn, Katy, Jason, Kris, and Jeremiah.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a local Food Pantry.
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