Lily Eileen Nicely

Lily Eileen Palmer Nicely, 86, of Longdale Furnace, Va., passed into eternal rest early Monday morning, August 25, 2008, following a lengthy illness. Lily was born on October 15, 1921, in Kidderminster, Worcestershire, United Kingdom, to the late Harry and Lily Palmer. During World War II, she worked in a munitions factory, and volunteered at a USO post, where she met PFC Cecil A. Nicely, of Longdale Furnace in Alleghany County. She and Cecil were married on January 2, 1945. Following the war, Lily immigrated to Virginia, where she and Cecil made their home together in Longdale until his death in July 1998. She was well-known in the community for her kindness to animals and her fascination with birds, so much so that her neighbors called her "the bird lady." Her other avocation was her work with Longdale United Methodist Church, where she held many positions, including serving on council and singing in the choir.
On July 4, 1982, Lily completed her transition to the United States when she became a naturalized citizen in a ceremony at Monticello, with Governor Charles Robb presiding.
Lily is survived by her two children, Martin C. Nicely and his wife, Sharon, of Virginia Beach, and Teresa Nicely Calhoun and her husband, Garry, of Roanoke. In addition, she leaves three grandchildren, Pamela and Kimberly Nicely, of Virginia Beach, and Kayleigh Joy Calhoun, of Roanoke. There is also a special cousin, whom Lily considered a sister, Liz Tubman, of Somerset, England.
A memorial service to celebrate Lily's life will be held 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 30, 2008, in Longdale United Methodist Church with Pastor Charlie Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends in the church Social Hall one hour before the service and immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either Longdale United Methodist Church, 121 Church Road, Clifton Forge, Va. 24422 or to the Alleghany County Humane Society, P.O. Box 60, Low Moor, Va. 24457.
The family wishes to express special thanks to all the caring staff at Bethel Ridge Assisted Living Care and to Medi Home Health and Hospice.
"Well done, good and faithful servant."
Matthew 25:21
Arrangements by Oakey's East Chapel and Crematory, 540-977-3909.