Larry Dean Lillard Sr.

Larry Dean Lillard Sr., passed away on March 6, 2024 in Danville, Illinois.

Son of Emma “Louvenia” (White) and George D. Lillard, he was born January 19,1952 in Danville, Illinois. Originally educated in the Danville community schools, during his teen years he moved to Detroit, Michigan where he graduated from Charles F. Kettering Sr. High School in 1972. He was a founding member of a social club the Monte Carlos and considered his Monte Carlos sweater one of his prized possessions. Shortly after finishing high school, he married Debra Tyus and to that union three children were born Larry Jr., George, and Qiana. He worked as an insurance salesman for several years before returning to his beloved home town of Danville, where he honorably served as a member of the Illinois National Guard. In 1989 he married Cathy Lewis and together they raised two children Keynon & Mariah. Larry was an avid practitioner of martial arts and continued his daily practice of Thai Chi until shortly before his death. He proudly served his community as a member of the Vermilion County Sherriff’s Department until illness forced him to officially retire in 2017. He served in this capacity for many years as the only Black deputy. Larry enjoyed music and before he lost his vision could often be found taking pictures at various social events including the motorcycle club. Larry was a faithful member of Lighthouse World Ministries where he enjoyed singing and playing his congo drums. Larry also enjoyed creating new acronyms such as J.A.M., Jesus Allows Me, and would often end conversations with his children reminding them to stay as C.O.O.L. as you are cause you are a Child of One Lillard or a Child of Our Lord.

He is survived by his four children Larry (Nina) of Springfield, VA, Qiana of Detroit, MI and George & Mariah of Danville, IL, four grandchildren Keosha Tolefree, Joshua Vanover, Izaiah Lopez and Delilah Lillard and one great grandson Karter Tolefree as well as his sister Beverly Reed and brothers Kenneth Lillard, Yakini Shakir, and Phillip (JoAnda) Lillard along with many, many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents George & Emma “Louvenia” Lillard, his brother Nathaniel Lillard, his sister Jocelyn Davis, and stepson Keynon Lewis.

Larry was a deeply beloved father, uncle, cousin, brother, and friend. His passing was sudden and somewhat unexpected but peaceful.

A “Celebration of Life & Funeral Service” will be held at 12:00 Noon Saturday March 16, 2024 at New Life Church of Faith 1419 N. Bowman Ave. Danville Il. A visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of service. Burial will follow after at Springhill Cemetery. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Larry Dean Lillard Sr., please visit our floral store.