Emery Elijah Lilly

Emery Elijah Lilly, age 96, widower of Loretta Mary Lilly, passed away, March 26, 2026.

Born in Jetsville, West Virginia, he was a son of the late Robert and Elizabeth Lilly.

Emery dedicated 45 years of his life to the coal mining industry, serving as the superintendent of a coal cleaning plant in West Virginia. After retiring, he moved to Greenville, South Carolina, to be closer to his beloved daughter. His dedication to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family and faith. A lifelong member of Northside Baptist Church, he found strength and solace in his Christian beliefs, which guided him throughout his life.

Emery was a kind and stable man, admired by all who knew him. He took great pleasure in creating cherished memories with his family, particularly through his carpentry work. He lovingly built rocking horses, rocking chairs, and tables for his grandchildren, leaving a legacy of love and craftsmanship. In his leisure time, Emery enjoyed hunting, which allowed him to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

Emery is survived by his daughter Patricia Samargo (Jack); two granddaughters, Shawna Samargo Borleis (Don) and Christina Samargo Coutinho (Joseph); grandson Jackie Joe "Joey" Samargo (Ashley); five great-granddaughters, Maddie Borleis, Emmie Borleis, Chapel Coutinho, Willow Coutinho, and Haven Samargo; and nine great-grandsons, Zach Borleis, Boston Coutinho, Carver Coutinho, Campbell Coutinho, Knox Coutinho, Hudson Coutinho, Schaeffer Coutinho, Boone Coutinho, and Weston Samargo; and a brother, Clyde Lilly.

In addition to her parents and wife, Emery was preceded in death by one great-grandson, Isaiah Coutinho; and nine siblings.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m.. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Northwest, with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. in the Northwest Chapel. Burial will be held in Graceland Cemetery West.

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