Levi W. Lile, 88, of Bellefontaine passed away Friday, July 5, 2024 at his residence surrounded by his family.
Levi was born October 30, 1935 in Logan County to the late Frank V. and Abbie R. (Hayes) Lile. In 1958 he married Nancy Nicholl, who survives. He is also survived by his children, Laird A. Lile, Naples, FL, Laura (James Tafel) Lile, Franklin TN and Linn (Richard Silliman) Lile Harson, Yellow Springs, OH; grandchildren, Andrew T. (Chrissy) Sparks, Kettering, OH, Carson D. (Sara) Smith, Detroit, MI, Chloe N. (Dominic) Morrow, Fort Wayne, IN, Langdon A. Lile, Naples, FL, Linden Alise (“Allie”) Lile, Naples, FL, Hannah M. Burlen, Point Pleasant, OH, Sarah (Stefan Barbic) Silliman, New York City, NY and Benjamin A. (Ellie) Silliman, Cincinnati, OH; many nieces and nephews; Melody Mason, Battle Creek, MI, Melissa (Mark) Lecy, Minneapolis, MN, Jeanine (Jim) Joseph, Johnstown, OH and Christopher Nicholl, Richmond, VA; and his “local children” Mick and Roni Lile.
He is preceded in death by his siblings: Frank “Joe” Lile, Emma Katherine (Lile) Hartzler, Phyllis (Lile) Guthrie and James R. Lile.
Born on the family farm, Levi passed away leaving behind a legacy of dedication, service, and love for learning. Levi’s journey began at Iron City Elementary School, followed by his graduation from Bellefontaine High School in 1954, where he was co-lead in both the Junior and Senior Class plays. His entrepreneurial spirit shone early as he established and operated a turkey farm during high school, selling turkeys to businesses for holiday gifts.
Levi’s pursuit of knowledge led him to The Ohio State University College of Agriculture, where he graduated in 1959. He shared his passion for science by teaching Junior High School students at McClain School in Greenfield, Ohio, before setting his sights on law. Determined and hardworking, Levi started law school at night at Capital Law School in Columbus, Ohio, and earned his law degree from Ohio Northern Law School in 1972.
For 52 years, Levi practiced law in Bellefontaine, Ohio, earning a reputation as a dedicated and compassionate attorney. Early in his career, he served as Bellefontaine City Prosecutor. His commitment to his community was further demonstrated through his 70 years as a Mason, 52 years as a member of the Ohio State Bar Association, and his loyalty to the Logan County Bar Association.
Levi’s life was enriched by his love for his grandchildren, his passion for remodeling houses, and his enthusiasm for traveling, especially to the Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, Ontario. He was a life-long learner, always eager to explore new ideas and experiences.
Levi’s legacy is one of service, learning, and love, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he served so faithfully.
A private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.
Online Condolences may be expressed at www.jenningsfarley.com
