Roll Call Tribute

Gary Ronald Lilly 

January 23, 1938 - March 23, 2024 

Gary Lilly, 86, passed peacefully from this life with his family and chaplain by his side on March 23, 2024.

Gary was born in the old Jeff Davis hospital in Houston on January 23, 1938, to Vera and Stanley Lilly. He was raised on the old northside of Houston on Cochran Street and as a youth was a Boy Scout and earned Eagle Scout rank. In high school he attended Jeff Davis high school excelling in athletics and was an all city basketball player.

After high school, Gary went on to get his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at Texas A&M University. He was also in the Corp of Cadets for two years.

Upon graduation from Texas A&M, Gary went to work for Southern Pacific railroad and also met his wife of 61 years, Gladys Jo Powell. Gary went on to travel the nation with railroad promotions and Gladys supporting him every step of the way. Gary ended his railroad career as an executive with the Union Pacific railroad and, after retirement, enjoyed consulting because of his wealth of railroad engineering experience.

In addition to his primary career, Gary was also a licensed real estate broker with the state of Texas. He assisted Gladys with her real estate business for over 40 years.

Gary's primary hobbies included senior softball and senior basketball. He traveled to tournaments with his friends and even participated in the Senior Olympics. One of his special passions was of course Texas A&M University. He kept Aggie season football tickets for over 20 years and was a member of the 12th Man Foundation, as well as The Association of Former Students. 

Gary always enjoyed a crowd and could be counted on being the center of attention with his big personality. However, his most special passion was caring for his wife and spending time with his children.

He is survived by his wife Gladys; son Gregory and his wife Anne; daughter Gina and her husband Chris; grandchildren Logan, Corbin, Paige, Caroline, Brendon, Grant and sister Rosalind.

Floral arrangements can be entrusted to Klein Funeral home at the Champion Forest location. Alternatively, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org. 
Funeral Home Address: 16131 Champion Forest Dr, Spring TX 77379
Cemetery Address: 13747 Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77039