Also known as "Jim"
9 October 1953 – 22 July 2025
Also known as "Jim"
9 October 1953 – 22 July 2025
Suddenly taken from us in Christchurch, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, aged 71.
Loved husband of the late Cathy Lilley
Loving father, grandfather, brother, cousin, uncle and dear friend of many.
You will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cancer Society would be appreciated and may be made online at www.cancer.org.nz
Messages to the family of Jim Lilley c/- PO Box 10345, Christchurch 8145.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in the Canterbury Crematorium Chapel, corner Keighleys Road and Linwood Avenue, on Tuesday, July 29, at 11am.
Funeral service held at The Canterbury Crematorium Chapel
It was such a lovely send off for Jim today. Thank you, Jim for making Go Bus/Kinetic a better place to work with your wealth of knowledge, zest for life and fun sense of humor. Rest in peace, Jim. You will be truly missed. Sending my deepest condolences to Jim's family and friends.
I met Jim in 2006 at Maritime NZ, and from the very beginning, it was clear we were on the same wavelength. Witty, funny, and endlessly charming, Jim had a way of lighting up a room with his sharp humour and warm presence. He wasn’t just a colleague—he quickly became a cherished friend for life. Jim had a rare gift for connection. Whether it was sharing a bottle of red wine, offering his home as a haven during work trips, or simply exchanging stories that made us laugh until we cried, every moment with him was filled with genuine warmth and camaraderie. He spoke often and lovingly of his granddaughter Immy, whose name would light up his face with pride and affection. His devotion and love for Cath was unwavering. When Cath and my little sister passed away within a few weeks of each other, he understood the grief. Jim was more than a friend; he was a kindred spirit. His presence in my life was a gift, and his memory will forever be etched in my heart. I will always remember the laughter, the wisdom, the compassion, and the countless moments that made our friendship so special. Rest well, Jim. You were truly one of a kind.
Jim you were such a lovely friend, host, lift giver, hospital visitor when I took ill in NZ on my last visit. You supported Shona when she was in despair About me and lots of laughs when we invaded your home for a few weeks longer than planned . Wish we had been able to return the hospitality but unfortunately God had other plans.
So sad to know that 'uncle Jim' passed away. Dear Jim, our friend, we live far away but we were always nearby in our hearts, and that will never change. Thanks for so many good memories. Deepest sympathy and our condolences to Jim's friends and Family. Fam. Verhagen Your Dutch family
Very sad to learn that Jim is no longer with us and shocked too. He was always cheerful and will be a great loss. My condolences to Jim’s family
Deepest sympathy to all the family Jim truly was such a special friend with a beautiful heart. So many terrific memories and he will be forever in my heart. Much love from J.B. (Dribbles)
So sad to hear. Thank you Jim for the memories and stories of leopard seals and whales. You will be greatly missed. RIP...
This is such a shock! Dear Jim such a special and loved friend. Thank you for being there for me. I will miss you very much x
Jim was a friend for over 50yrs , such a great guy , prankster, laugh of party , loved his family an his soul mate Cathy. Biggles. Passionate about whales an nature. My condolences to Jim's Family an friends.
Funeral service held at The Canterbury Crematorium Chapel

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