OTHAR GROVER LILLY SR., born December 10, 1949 to the late Walter Lee and Mae Willie Lilly. He departed this life on June 8, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to his family and community.

Othar was a 1969 graduate of Carver High School, where he developed a passion of education and leadership. He continued his academic journey at North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC. During his time at North Carolina A&T, Othar became a member of the Zeta Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated, forming lifelong bonds with fellow members and embodying the fraternity's principles of scholarship, leadership, citizenship, fidelity, and brotherhood.

In 1980, he moved his family to Minneapolis, MN where he remained until his retirement in 2012 from CenterPoint Energy. During his time in Minnesota, Othar became a member of New Hope Baptist Church. His commitment to serving others led him to be ordained as a Deacon. While at New Hope, he held various leadership roles, including Chairman of the Deacon Board, Sunday School Teacher, and a member of the Trustee Board.

Upon his retirement in 2012, he and his wife, Letha returned home to Winston-Salem, NC and joined Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church where Othar continued his dedication to service by becoming the Sunday School Superintendent and serving faithfully for 14 years. His compassionate leadership within the church community culminated in his being honored with the distinguished award of Man of the Year, 2024.

Othar leaves to mourn his wife of 49 years, Letha (Chris), daughter, Monica (Clairmont) and son, Othar Jr.; grandchildren, Zacari, Omari, Camara, Jadin, Mykayla, and Olivia. Sisters, Lou Ella Wilson (Eugene Sr.), Phyllis, Marie (Mark) and Gloria Jean; brother, Bobby Lilly, and a host of nieces, nephews, fraternity brothers, and close friends who will remember him for his kindness, strength, and unwavering support.

The Services to Celebrate the Life and Legacy of Mr. Lilly will be on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, 12:00pm, in the Chapel of Smith's Funeral Home, 604 Salisbury Street, Wadesboro, North Carolina.

The Interment will be at Westview Memorial Park, Polkton, North Carolina.

The viewing will be on Monday, June 15, 2025 from 5:00-6:30pm at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

The Lilly Family will greet family and friends 30 minutes prior to the service on Tuesday and at all other times at the family residence.