Essie J. Lillard

Essie J. Lillard NORFOLK - Essie J. Lillard, 84, of the 1500 block of Fleetwood Ave., passed away March 1, 2009, at her residence. She was born March 13, 1924, to the late Essie Mae and Isaiah Jones in Norfolk. She was a former member of New Bethel COGIC and New Hope COGIC and was currently a member of Bread of Heaven Church of Deliverance. She was predeceased by a sister, Alberta Robinson. She leaves to cherish her memory three daughters, Pastor Rosa M. Hines (Fred L. Sr.) of Portsmouth, Annette Lillard of Chesapeake and Elaine Haney (Edmond) of Mansfield, Ohio; five sons, Neal Lillard III, Bishop E.J. Lillard (Vonnie), Dr. A.D. Lillard, all of Norfolk, Timothy Lillard of West Virginia and Lamont Lillard of Georgia; 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; special niece, Delores Benton; and a host of other relatives and friends. A funeral will be held at noon Saturday in New Bethel COGIC, 4700 Little John Drive, Norfolk. Dr. A.D. Lillard, Pastor, will officiate. Interment will be in Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, Norfolk. Family and friends will assemble at 1535 Fleetwood Ave. one hour prior to service for procession to the church. Metropolitan Funeral Service, Granby St. Chapel, is in charge. Condolences may be offered at www.metropolitanfuneralservice.com.