Lilly Owens Tomlin

Lilly Mae Owens Tomlin, “Nanny” age 92, passed away peacefully on April 2nd, 2026, in Graham, NC. Born on December 17, 1933, into a large family that included her parents, Fred and Alifair Owens, two sisters and six brothers, all of whom preceded her in death. In the small town of Satolah, GA, Lilly brought light and love into the world from the very beginning.

Lilly grew up attending a small church in her hometown of Satolah where her faith was deeply rooted. After moving to Burlington, NC, she and her family became active members of Eastlawn Baptist Church. Lilly taught Sunday School and served her church in other capacities, as well. In 2006, she joined Haw River Christian Church, now known as the Lamb’s Chapel, where her devotion to her faith continued to flourish.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Lilly took great pride in raising her daughters – Deborah (Robbie Joe) Everhart, Jan (Mike) Williams, Joy Tomlin, and Kaye (Billy) Currie. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Jan. Lilly had a special bond with her grandchildren Angela Ebert, Danielle Ebert, and Kristi (Troy) Zalesky; and was the best nanny to her great-grandchildren Christopher, Jarret, Ziggy, and Canyon. She also loved and cherished her time with her bonus grandchildren and great-grandchildren – Robbie (Rochelle) Everhart and Kaden; Jason (Jennifer) Everhart; Clint (Lisa) Williams, Dillan, and Ayden; Kelly (Jay) Alexander, Holland, and Julia; Celeste (Joel) Perrell, Hallie, and Stella; Zack (Jessica) Currie, Emory, and Eloise; Joseph (Alicia) Brewer and great-great grandson Carson. Lilly adored and had strong relationships with her nieces and nephews until the day that she died, often talking to them weekly on the phone. Her love for her family was immense.

Lilly’s life was defined by service to others. She was an avid volunteer who dedicated herself to making a difference in her community. Whether serving as an ARMC Pink Lady or contributing to the Special Olympics, food banks, shelters, and countless other causes, Lilly embodied selflessness and compassion. Her efforts were recognized when she received the prestigious Bishop F. Joseph Award in 2007/2008 for her outstanding contributions to Catholic education.

She also quietly made the world a better place by making routine deliveries of food to the homeless shelter, by opening her home to young people who needed a safe place to stay, by always having a seat at the family table for anyone that needed a meal or a family, and by being by the side of numerous friends that she loved as they transitioned.

In addition to her volunteer work, Lilly found joy in gardening and canning. She delighted in sharing the fruits of her labor with others – a reflection of her generous spirit. Her garden was not only a source of nourishment but also a testament to her love for nature and hard work.

Lilly’s unwavering faith and kind heart inspired everyone around her. She believed deeply in the power of love and encouraged those she cared for to strive for their best while keeping their faith at the center of their lives. Her legacy is one of patience, kindness, devotion, and an unshakable belief in the goodness of people.

As we remember Lilly Mae “Nanny” Tomlin, we celebrate a life well-lived – a life that touched countless hearts through acts of kindness and unwavering love. May her memory continue to inspire all who knew her.

A service to celebrate her life will be held at 2:00PM, Sunday, April 12, 2026 at Lowe Funeral Home Chapel The family will receive friends immediately following the services and other times at the home.

Lilly’s family would like to thank Sarahkate Minnis and Christy Reel of Amedisys Hospice Care of Burlington for their support, kindness, and love they showed us and mom.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name can be sent Amedisys Hospice Care of Burlington, NC.