Marvin Allyn Lillie
Marvin Allyn Lillie, 79, of Dickinson, Texas, passed away peacefully in his home, October 30, 2017. Marvin was born August 6, 1938, to William and Elfrieda Lillie in Sioux City, IA. He proudly served his country in the U. S. Air Force as a C130 pilot. His service included a 14-month tour of duty in Viet Nam, being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his duty as a hurricane hunter, flying into the eye of hurricane Camille, and teaching R.O.T.C at the University of Connecticut. Marvin retired from the Air Force as a Lt. Colonel. Following his military service, Marvin taught R.O.T.C. at Des Moines East High School and Dickinson I.S.D. He was also active with the American Legion in Iowa, and the V.F.W. in Dickinson.
Marvin was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Randy Lillie and Leon Lillie. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife of 51 years, Terry Miller Lillie; sons Curtis Lillie and wife Vicky, Andrew Lillie and wife Lisa,
and Zachary Lillie; sister, Michele Lillie and husband Col. Douglas Wilson U.S.A.F. Ret.; brothers, Dean Lillie and wife Karen, Terrie Lillie and wife Kathy, David Lillie and wife, Dorothy, and Curtis Lillie and wife Pamela; and grandchildren, Alex Lillie, Jordyn Lillie, Lauren Lillie, Leah Lillie, and Zoey Lillie.
A visitation in his honor will be held 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm, Saturday, November 4, 2017, with Funeral Services at 3:00 pm, at Crowder Funeral Home Chapel, Dickinson, Texas. Interment services will be held at a later date in Smithland Cemetery, Smithland, Iowa.
It was an honor to know the Colonel when we smoked cigars together at the Smoke Ring in Webster years ago. A true American hero.
I really am going to miss my mornings with Marv. One of the finest people I have ever known
Terry n family.
So sorry to hear about Al. He was a good man..he will be missed. Hopefully will be able to connect with you soon. Again, sincere sympathy to all.
Al and I were confirmed at St. Johns Climbing Hill, Iowa and he married my best friend Terry. Always liked him much and will miss him.
Having just learned of Marv’s passing via the Military Officer’s Association, July 2018 publication, I pass my most sincere condolences to his family in remembering this great American. Marv and I were “Table Mates” during T-38 pilot training at Reese AFB, Texas in 1965-66. After graduation, we went our separate ways, Marv flying C-130s and yours truly, F-105s. During our demanding year together, Marv was a true friend, always upbeat as we slogged thru UPT. Marv’s distinguished performance flying combat in Vietnam and while chasing Hurricanes, underwrites what we all respected in him….his dedication to duty and love of Country. Rest well dear compatriot in the Peace you have earned. When I “Fly West,” I’ll look toward “joining-up” with you at the aviator’s bar for one last toast to days gone by.
Your Table Mate, John Schoeppner