Lillian Woodward Wyatt

Lillian Woodward Wyatt passed away on October 14, 2026, just four days after celebrating her 102nd birthday. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, laughter, friendship, and devotion to family.

Born in Atlanta on October 10, 1924, Lillian later moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where she met the love of her life, Salty Wyatt. They married in August 1942, beginning a remarkable love story that would span 75 wonderful years. Together, they built a life filled with adventure, enduring friendships, and cherished family memories. Lillian was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Salty, in 2017.

As an Air Force family, Lillian and Salty enjoyed traveling and experiencing new places before settling in Goldsboro, North Carolina, following Salty’s retirement from the Air Force in 1964. It was there that they raised their three children and established lifelong friendships.

Lillian was a woman of many talents and interests. She loved international cooking, golf, bridge, and floral arranging. But perhaps her greatest talent was bringing people together. A true social butterfly, Lillian loved being surrounded by family and friends. Her warm smile, joyful laughter, and welcoming spirit made everyone feel at home. She never met a stranger, and over the years, her circle of loved ones grew to include many “adopted” children and grandchildren who held a special place in her heart.

Her faith was an important part of her life. She was a devoted member of St. Francis Episcopal Church in Goldsboro, North Carolina, and later St. Edward’s Episcopal Church in Lawrenceville, Georgia.

Of all the wonderful experiences in her life, nothing brought Lillian greater happiness than her family. Her favorite vacations were the treasured family gatherings known simply as “Beach Week,” when everyone came together to enjoy the sunshine, laughter, and precious time with one another. These special gatherings created memories that will be cherished for generations.

When Lillian became “Granny,” she embraced the role with all her heart. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were among her greatest joys, and she delighted in being part of their lives.

Granny’s love was never in doubt, especially when she wrapped her arms around you for one of her famous hugs. She didn’t give ordinary hugs; she held you close and tight, as though she never wanted to let go. Those hugs became her signature, a beautiful expression of the way she loved so completely. To her family, she was a source of warmth, laughter, encouragement, and unconditional love.

Lillian is survived by her three children: Ed Wyatt and his wife, Lynn; Patty Knoll and her husband, Stan; and Leslie Kunkel and her husband, Steve.