David Lilley (1 Sep 1942 - 27 Jul 2025)

Deepest sympathy to the Lilley family on the death of David. He was a pleasure to work for in Courtaulds. M.J. Meehan Building & Civil Engineering Limited

Fondest memories of David, a lovely man. From Jane and Dave Lawn.

Such a lovely man, greatly missed.

I had the pleasure of getting to know David as part of Ickworth's Living History project. We were both involved from the start. As I was playing Head Housemaid and David being the Estate Manager known as Mr Prosser, we had a lot of interaction during both training and on set. We spent many a happy afternoon drinking tea and eating cake in the Housekeeper's sitting room, whilst putting the world to rights when there was a gap in visitors passing by. He had gravitas disciplining the staff in front of visitors, but you knew there was always a twinkle in his eye not far away. He loudly sang God Save the King (so we got the words right before we had a King again!) and led the servants' table in many a celebration meal. And the tap of that typewriter in his office and entirely convincing telephone conversations with non-existent tenants will remain a memory. What a character he played! And what a truly lovely man in real life. We stayed in touch after we both moved on. I shall remember him fondly.

It was a beautiful church service on Tuesday and a fitting send off. With love to all the family, particularly Anne x

In memory of David Lilley.

So many happy memories.

in memory of a good friend

For many years, David gave so much of himself to Ickworth, National Trust. Whether as a tour guide, a house guide, or most memorably as part of the 1930s servant costume interpretation team, he brought history to life with a sparkle in his eye and a mischievous sense of humour. His portrayal of Mr Prosser was nothing short of iconic – a role he inhabited with such charm and cheek that visitors and colleagues alike will never forget.

But beyond his talent and dedication, it was David himself who made the greatest impression. He was kind, fun, and endlessly loving – the sort of person who made every room brighter, every story more vivid, and every day more enjoyable simply by being there.

We are profoundly grateful for the time he shared with us, for the laughter he inspired, and for the love and care he gave so freely. David will always be part of the heart of Ickworth, and he will remain in our hearts forever.

The loveliest man, sorely missed

David was such a wonderful person. Never to be forgotten.

In memory of David Lilley

In memory of David Lilley.

I shall miss you greatly, Uncle David - not least all the family stories (the scandalous the better, as far as you were concerned!) and your encyclopaedic knowledge of all things PGW and the Royal Family. Thank you for starting me on my way in my career but, most of all, for being such a fun and caring Uncle. Rest in peace.

We loved David, he was such entertaining company, we shall miss him.

David will always be special to me. His kindness, his love for his family & friends, and his sense of humour. Sending so much love and I’m sorry I can’t be with you at this time. x

In memory of a lovely man.