Shirley Ann (Counsman) Lilly

Shirley Ann (Counsman) Lilly, 91, of Hendersonville, died Thursday, May 16, 2024 at Hendersonville Health and Rehab.

Born in Altoona, PA, she was the wife of the late William Leo Lilly, who died June 12, 2022. She was the daughter of the late John Leroy and Mary Leocadia (Miller) Counsman.

A member of St. Barnabas Catholic Church, she was active in the Couples Club and St. Vincent DePaul. Shirley was an Air Force Veteran, having achieved the rank of First Lieutenant.

Shirley was a loving, devoted mother and wife who cared deeply for her family. She was a practicing Registered Nurse for 45 years who took great pride in caring for her patients. She was a kind hearted woman that everyone loved as soon as they met her.

Shirley is survived by five children: William Leo Lilly, Jr (Melissa) of Rocky Point, NC, Denise Marie Lilly of Asheville, Joseph G. Lilly of Croatia, Susan Marie Jarrell (Billy) of Waxhaw, NC, and Michael J. Lilly of Bend, OR; six grandchildren: Damon, (Megan) Ryan, Austin, and Bradin Lilly and Kaylee and Collin Jarrell; and many nieces and nephews.

Friends will be received from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM Monday, May 27, 2024 at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian. 72 Long Shoals Rd. Arden, NC 28704 A Rosary will be prayed at 4:30. All are welcome.

A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at St. Barnabas Catholic Church located at 109 Crescent Hill Rd. Arden, NC 28704. Father Adrian Porras will be officiating. A Reception will be held following the funeral mass. Burial with military honors will follow at 2:00 PM at the WNC State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain.

Memorial contributions in her memory may be made to St. Vincent DePaul at St. Barnabas Catholic Church or St. Jude Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org.

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.