Linda Marie Lilly (nee Baylor) of Raleigh, North Carolina passed away after a brief illness on February 19, 2020. She was born on October 28, 1950 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Doris Baylor. She was an intelligent and curious child, graduating from the Philadelphia High School for Girls in 1968. She attended Temple University after high school, earning bachelor's and master's degrees in education. She was also fluent in Spanish. Linda loved children and was an elementary school teacher in Philadelphia for many years, often working as a bilingual education teacher with Spanish-speaking students. She also ran a home-based daycare center for several years that reached local children. Linda was a committed Christian and an ordained minister.
Linda was deeply devoted to her family and friends. She enjoyed a close relationship with her only child, Kia Lilly Caldwell. She moved to Raleigh, North Carolina to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren and enjoyed participating in programs at a local drop-in center.
Linda is survived by her daughter, Kia Lilly Caldwell, son-in-law, Dervinn Caldwell, and grandchildren, Isaiah and Maya Caldwell, as well as a host of cousins and friends.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Fellowship Health Resources, fhr.net/about-us, or The Salvation Army, give.salvationarmyusa.org. Online condolences may be made at www.firstcremation.com.
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Linda Lilly
October 28, 1950 – February 19, 2020
Memories in photographs
Condolences & memories
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This is such a beautiful tribute to Linda Marie Lilly. Kia, I'm so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. And while I've never met your mother, I know she must have been SO PROUD of you. She was a remarkable woman who raised a remarkable daughter.
Sounds like your mother was an amazing woman and a great influence on you, Kia. I don't know many African American women of her generation from Philadelphia who achieved so much. I imagine she must have impacted generations of young people as an educator and minister. I'm so sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Gloria
Kia, my sympathies are with you and your family. I'm so sorry for your loss. Indeed, your mom sounds AMAZING! I'm inspired by just reading this bit of her story. And to have her as a mom and role model, marvalliso! Your heart is broken. If I can be of any help and support, please please don't hesitate to reach out.~ Kim Allen
What a beautiful tribute to an incredible life! Sending you and your family love. I am so thankful for all the ways you've shared with so many of us your and your mother's shared love for and commitment to education and community. Love, Petal
What a life! Sending so much love to you and your family, Kia.
My heartfelt condolences to the family, wishing you blessed memories of joy and love. May you find peace and comfort in celebrating Linda's life, as you carry her with you forever. She was such a warm, bubbly, enthusiastic GHS girl, so many years ago. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Know that her presence added to our lives, and that she will be missed from afar.
I remember Linda from Girls High as if it were yesterday. Her smile lit up every room she occupied, and her sweetness of spirit was a gift. My heartfelt condolences to all of Linda's family and friends
My vivacious line sister is with the Lord. We will miss her. I am praying for her daughter. Soror Joyce Guy-Patton
Memories of my friend and sister by another mother flood my soul. Linda, my friend throughout our teen years at GHS and young womanhood at Temple University , was a steadfast confidant. We shared our love of life and family as we pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, participated in each other's weddings, and celebrated the births of our children. Linda, I will forever hold our friendship and sisterhood in my heart. Until we meet again!!
Deepest Condolences to Dr. Kia Caldwell and Family, on the Transition of your Mother, Cousin Linda Marie Lilly (Baylor). Mournfully, Brothers...Lawrence, Reggie, Bill, Steve...Philly Family. She was our little sister for all of her days.
She touched so many people. She was so ready and so good at doing God's work in the world. I'm so glad she moved to be near you and the kids. I know that brought her a daily joy. I'm so sorry for your loss. Sending you love and hugs, Stephanie.
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