Samuel Walter Lilley

1996 - 2025

Samuel Walter Lilley

May 16, 1996 - January 29, 2025

Charlotte, North Carolina - Samuel Walter Lilley was an impactful, hilarious person, genuine friend, and excellent partner. He lost his life in a mid-air collision over Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025. This tragedy has left his loved ones grieving the loss of a son, brother, fiancée and friend. Sam's passion for aviation was second only to his passion for those he loved. That love was at the heart of who he was, shaping his career in the skies and the relationships he built along the way.

Sam was a man of warmth, humor, and generosity. He made people feel at ease, whether through a poorly-timed joke or his ability to listen with sincerity. His kindness and enthusiasm for life extended far beyond the cockpit, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Born May 16, 1996, at Tripler Army Hospital in Honolulu, Hawaii, Sam grew up in Richmond Hill, Georgia, where he was an active member of Coastal Community Christian Church. He graduated from Richmond Hill High School and then attended Georgia Southern University. While earning a bachelor's degree in marketing, he spent a semester abroad in Germany. He grew to love travel, fine foods, music, and scuba diving. He was a proud member of the Theta Omega chapter of Delta Sigma Pi.

After graduation, he explored his options before following in his father's footsteps to pursue an aviation career. He graduated from ATP Flight School in Daytona Beach, where he later became a flight instructor, shaping the next generation of pilots. He pursued his dream with unwavering determination, earning his wings through rigorous training and strenuous hours in the sky. As a First Officer with PSA Airlines, Sam was known for his skill, professionalism, and deep respect for his craft. Those who flew alongside him knew him not only as a talented pilot but also as a loyal and supportive colleague and a dependable friend.

Sam is survived by his fiancée, Lydia Coles, of Charlotte, NC; mother, Dannah Lilley, of Richmond Hill, GA; father, Tim Lilley and stepmother, Sheri Lilley, of Savannah, GA; sister, Tiffany Lilley Gibson, of Pikeville, NC; brother, Joshua Lilley, of Richmond Hill, GA; stepbrother, Patrick Daugherty, of Atlanta, GA; nephews, Jonathan Gibson (Madison) and Ryan Gibson; niece, Kaitlyn Gibson; and his larger close-knit circle of family, friends, and colleagues who will carry his memory forward. His legacy continues not only in the skies he loved but in the lives he touched with his generosity and spirit. Though his time was far too short, Sam's mark on the world will endure in both the industry he was so passionate about and the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 15, at 11 a.m., at Georgia Southern Savannah Fine Arts Center. Honorary pallbearers, Theta Omega chapter of Delta Sigma Pi.

The family requests that in place of flowers, memorials may be made in Sam Lilley's name to the Renegade Paws Rescue, Samaritan's Purse, or the charity you feel best supports the values he held dear.

Please visit www.foxandweeks.com to sign our online guestbook.