Bernice Lilley

Bernice Womack Lilley, age 93 of Jefferson City, passed away Saturday, August 9, 2025, at StoneBridge-Oak Tree Villas. Her life reflected her steadfast faith, servant's heart, and deep devotion to family.
She was born on November 27, 1931, in Flat River, Missouri to the late Leon Wilson and Ada (Beck) Womack.
Bernice was a graduate of Flat River High School, Flat River Junior College, and Lincoln University, receiving a Bachelor of Science and master's degree in education. She worked in the field of education for more than 30 years, dedicating 25 of those years to the Jefferson City Public Schools. She retired in 1993.
A resident of Jefferson City since 1955, she married her beloved Roy on November 27, 1953, and together they shared over 62 years of marriage, filled with adventure, travel, and deep devotion to each other. He preceded her in death on May 26, 2015.
From humble beginnings, Bernice found her calling in life through service-most notably in the classroom. For over 30 years, she dedicated herself to teaching, providing not only knowledge but also stability, structure, and care to the children entrusted to her. She had a special way of instilling life skills that would guide her students well beyond their school years.
Her favorite color was yellow, reflecting the warmth and brightness she brought to others. After dinner, she often enjoyed peaceful drives around Jefferson City, a calming ritual that helped her reset for the next day. In quieter moments, she found joy in cross stitch, card games, and her weekly Bridge gatherings, and watching St. Louis Cardinal games; she treasured reminiscing about times spent on the porch with her dad listening to the games in her younger years. Traveling the world with Roy was one of her greatest joys, and she loved sharing experiences with her grandsons, taking them to museums, big cities, and even on a train ride.
Her faith was her foundation. Mornings were spent in devotion and prayer, often with the writings of Max Lucado, as she reflected and spoke with God. She lived her faith actively serving as a deacon at First Baptist Church, singing with the Friendship Singers, attending the Irwin Sunday School Class, and contributing her time and talents to her community. She was a founder of the Diana's Club MFWC, a partner at Capital Region Medical Center, a member of MSTA, a former docent at the Governor's Mansion, and served on the board at Riverview Cemetery.
Bernice was direct, dependable, and deeply caring. She never wanted to be a burden to anyone, often saying simply, "I'm fine." But she was so much more than fine-she was an example of grace, strength, and love, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Survivors include her son Jim Lilley of Topeka, Kan.; two grandsons, Ryan Lilley (Aysia Carr) and James Lilley all of Katy, Tx and their mom, Tia Lilley of Topeka, Kan; niece, Cara Akridge of Festus, Mo.: dear friend and caretaker, Debbie Bledsoe (Brad) of Jefferson City, Mo.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Roy; and two daughters, Lisa Lilley and Nancy Lilley.
Visitation will be held from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at First Baptist Church, 301 E. Capitol, Jefferson City, Missouri.
A funeral service will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at the church with Deborah Scott officiating. Graveside services and entombment will be held at Riverview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to First Baptist Church - Keys of Hope, 301 E Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101, or Missouri Girls Town Foundation, 8548 Jade Rd, Kingdom City, MO 65262.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Bernice Lilley, please visit our Tree Store.