Mrs. Vernell (Washington) Lilley

Mrs. Vernell (Washington) Lilley, age 64, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 15, 2015 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center with the love and support of her family. Born in the Bronx, NY on November 30, 1950, Vernell was the daughter of the late Samuel Sneed and Lillian (Washington) Gardner. As a young girl, she relocated to Utica to be closer to family and was a graduate of Utica Free Academy. On November 2, 1974 she wed Frank L. Lilley, Sr. with whom she shared nearly 28 years in a power-couple marriage. They had the connection, and they cared about all those they came to know —- which were many! They embraced and extended an open-door policy at their home. Vernell began her working career at Sketchley Linen Company. She subsequently entered the nursing field as a CNA and an LPN devoting 28 years where she held positions at the Eden Park Nursing Home, the Loretto Utica Center, and lastly, Cedarbrook Village. Vernell was nurturing, hard-working, and she loved caring for people in need. With a smile that brightened any room and a joyful, uplifting spirit, Vernell was a blessing to all who were in her care. She was sociable and was often admired for having ‘no filter’ in getting her point across. She knew how to throw a “party” and make you laugh, but beware… she was also a ‘firecracker’ and anyone in her way felt her wrath! She was a passionate woman who loved to cook and gather with friends and loved ones to celebrate special occasions. Music moved her soul and no matter what she was doing, her songs were on. She was a “Twerk Queen” and James Brown was her man. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, and she could be heard at times “talking junk to the TV” if she disagreed! She was also a bright and bubbly bartender at various area venues where she would speak her peace and ‘point blank’. She was a member of the Harriet Tubman Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) Temple 421 and a Past Daughter Ruler of the Lodge. Vernell was a believer in her Lord and praised him. But the greatest privilege and pride of her life was being a parent to her children; she loved each and every one of them and wanted them to remain close and respect each other. Vernell will live on in the hearts of her children, grandbabies, and all her family and friends. She loved passionately and lived life well… and to the best of her ability. Rest well, Vernell. Vernell is survived by her companion, Wayde Brown, also known as Ali Shabzz; her children, Victoria Jackson, Melissa Stiles, Frankie Lilley Jr., Michael Lilley, Demetrius Lilley, Chris Lilley, and Caroline Lilley; her many, many grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. She will also be held in the hearts of her sisters and brothers-in-law, Pauline and James Thames, Lutishia Jackson, Patricia and Demond Allen, and Elizabeth Jackson; her brothers and sister-in-law, Obie Hawkins, Lee and Linda Jackson, David Jackson, and Ernest Jackson; and her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. She had a history with these good people: Rosalind Harris, Freddie McKinney, and Aunt Doreen Lacey. She was predeceased by her sisters, Shirley Jackson, and Minnie Washington; her brother and sister-in-law, Walter and Angela Jackson; and her special aunt, Alice Mann. The family appreciated the efforts of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Emergency Room staff and the many family members and friends who called and showed love and respect for Vernell. Visitation will be held Saturday from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Vernell’s Home Going and Celebration of Life will be offered at 4:00 at the funeral home upon the conclusion of calling hours. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mrs. Vernell (Washington) Lilley

November 30, 1950 - November 15, 2015