Lillie Anne Daye

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4: 7-8

Lillie Anne Daye, 78 of Concord, Va., was born June 2, 1945, to the late Clifton and Mary Elizabeth Giles. On November 12, 2023, while surrounded by her loved ones at UVA Health Hospital, Lillie departed this earthly life and transitioned into eternal rest.

Lillie was one of eleven siblings growing up in Campbell County among a close-knit family. On June 5, 1962, Lillie married Ernest Daye, Sr., her loving and devoted husband of 61 years. Together they had two sons, Ernest Daye Jr., and Kevin Daye.

To know Lillie was to love her. She had a heart of gold that showed through in many ways, especially through her delicious baking and home cooking. She absolutely loved being surrounded by her family and close friends. Her family in anticipation looked forward to the holidays when she served her amazing food and infamous sweet potato pies. She was known throughout the community for her delicious desserts, signature macaroni & cheese and potato salad. You would often see her cook or bake for large gatherings with joy and ease because she did it with love and this brought enjoyment to her heart. A one-of-a-kind spirit and a smile that would make you feel right at home. Always styling in her many beautiful ensembles and of course her signature lipstick. Her confidence and boldness in the Lord let you know she was near and ready to lend a hand.

Lillie was employed for 20 years at Morrisons Cafe, which later became Piccadilly’s. While there she handled all the wonderful desserts for the restaurant. Many came to this restaurant solely for the dishes she prepared. Lillie, known by coworkers there as “ma Lillie”, worked and served with pride until her health started to decline.

Lillie joined New Hope Baptist Church of Lynchburg, VA in February of 1959 and was a loyal and dedicated member. Beginning February 8, 1970, she was and remained the Assistant Clerk and Senior Choir Director that she initially joined in 1963. Additionally, she was part of the Hospitality Ministry. Lillie was an avid supporter of all youth ministry events and programs. She was dedicated and attended Vacation Bible School each year. She was an active participant in Sunday School and weekly Bible Study, whether in person or on conference call she was there. Despite how she felt physically or any limitations this did not deter her from attending church services.

Lillie is preceded in death by her siblings Nelson Giles, Gary Giles, Sr., James (Alex) Giles, Lessie McCoy, Mary (Ethel) Lambert, and Sarah Freeman; five Brothers-in-law Earl Daye, Isiah Daye, Van (June) Brown, Earl Lambert, Sr., John Henry McCoy, Sr; three Sisters-in-law Mildred Giles, Letitia Farmer Giles, and Georgianna (Peggy) Little.

In addition to her husband Ernest, Lillie is survived by her two sons Ernest Daye, Jr. (Sheral Word) & Kevin Daye, her daughter-in-law Shenelle Daye and one and only granddaughter Layla Daye. She also leaves to cherish her memories her four sisters: Helen Brown, of Lynchburg, VA, Marie Nowlin (Lacy), of Lynchburg, VA, Arlene Goode (Sevelle), of Lynchburg, VA, and Sheryle Hampton (Dwayne), of Lynchburg, VA; two sisters-in-law Daisy Crawford and Ella Daye, one brother-in-law Major Daniel all of Maryland. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and devoted friends remain to cherish her legacy and show the harvest planted by her life.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 19, 2023, at Tharp Funeral Home. A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at Tharp Funeral Home. Interment will be at New Hope Baptist Church.