John Joseph Lilly was called home September 19, 2010 at 12:30 p.m. in the Good Shepherd Nursing Home, Lockwood, Missouri, He was the youngest of three sons born to Thomas B. and Katherine E. (Lohmeyer) Lilly on January 12, 1915. He attended St. Joseph's School, Senior High and graduated in 1933. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was awarded two bronze stars worn on the Asiatic-Pacific Ribbon for participation in the Campaign of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. He also was awarded the Victory Medal. He was a route salesman. He was a wonderful father, husband, brother and friend to all who knew him. A man known for his deep belly laugh. His customers loved to see him come so they could tell him a story and hear him laugh. Survived by the love of his life, Helen (nee: Alexander) whom he married April 16, 1947; son, Robert A. and wife, Pam; daughter, Marilyn Daly and husband, Steve; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and a grand-dog, Johnny Cash. Pre-deceased by his oldest son, John Edward in August 1948. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, September 24, 2010 in Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel. Funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 25, 2010 in St. Susanne's Catholic Church, Mt. Vernon, with Reverend Pat Teter officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Springfield. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church, Richland, Missouri or St. Susanne's Catholic Church, Mt. Vernon, Missouri.