Jerry G. Lilly

Jerry G. Lilly, 84, died early Tuesday, September 30, 2025 at Bucyrus Community Hospital after three years of failing health.

He was born in Patriot, Ohio on May 29, 1941 to the late John and Irene (Betz) Lilly. His childhood in Gallia County was spent playing sports, squirrel hunting, and enjoying the outdoors. He attended Southwestern High School and married Connie Jeffers on August 21, 1960. The Lillys made their way to Crawford County in 1963, and Jerry spent most of his working years at Tecumseh in Marion and Arctic Cat in Bucyrus. He also operated an auto salvage business with his son and cut and sold countless loads of firewood.

Jerry will be remembered for his kindness and conversations. He could strike up a conversation with anyone on any subject having never met a stranger. Jerry adored his family and was always present at their events. As an avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing. At home, he tinkered on everything, cut a lot of firewood, and watched westerns on television. He and Connie were faithful members of the Bucyrus Nazarene Church, went out to eat every chance they had, and he loved ice cream.

Jerry is survived by his bride of 65 years, Connie S. Lilly; children, Randy (Sherry) Lilly and Mark (Cheryl) Lilly; grandchildren, Ryan (Camy) Lilly, Jena (Aaron) Starr, Jen (Ryan) Noblet, and Jason Lilly; great grandchildren, Zayden, Corbin, Willow, Hailey, Kate, Lilly, and Noel. He is also survived by Connie’s siblings, Anna Pollock, Wanda (Nolen) Thornton, Phyllis (Steve) Miller, and Phil (Donna) Jeffers.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by brother, David Lilly; in-laws, Rev. Jesse and Elizabeth Jeffers; and brother-in-law, Ron Pollock.

The Lilly family will receive friends on Friday, October 3 from 4-7 pm at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. His funeral will be held on Saturday, October 4 at 10:00 am at Bucyrus Nazarene Church with Pastor Ray LaSalle officiating. Burial will follow in Crawford County Memory Gardens.

Jerry loved nothing more than supporting his family and being present for their events. His family requests those considering a memorial contribution give to an education fund that is being established for his great grandchildren. These gifts can be made payable to Connie Lilly who will set up the fund.

Memories and photos can be shared on the guestbook of Jerry’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.