Obituary - Robert Brient Stilley

GRANTHAM - Robert Brient Stilley, 72, passed away on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at UNC Health Rex, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Lenoir County on August 30, 1952, he was the son of the late James Stilley and Alma Howard Stilley Ferrell.

Brient is survived by his wife, Debora Stilley; children, Christopher Stilley, Taylor Stilley and wife, Lacy, David Rye, and Jessica R. Simons and husband, Kris; grandchildren, Grayson Rye, Zoey Rye, Camden Rye, Madison Simons, Gavin Simons, and Ella Simons; siblings, Sandra F. Smith, Della McCain and husband, E.L., and Mona S. Boyette and husband, Ben; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Brient was preceded in death by four siblings, Buddy Ferrell, Kenneth F. Points, Carol F. Tyndall and Greg Stilley.

Valiantly serving his country, Brient was a member of the United States Army where he served in the 82nd Airborne Division. Active in his local community, he was a retired member of Grantham Volunteer Fire Department and Grantham Rescue Squad. As the Chief Judge for the Grantham Precinct, Brient offered his time during the election process and strongly encouraged everyone to vote.

A true people person, Brient enjoyed his time selling outdoor power equipment at Steven’s Truck and Tractor. He loved being with his work family, Ed, Cindy, Peter, and Katie, and had a knack for striking up a conversation with all who entered the business.

Around the home, you could most often find Brient enjoying his yard. Whether riding on his Grasshopper mower (“nothing cuts like a Grasshopper”) or filling his bird feeders to overflowing, Brient was content appreciating nature.

A collector of fine antiques and vintage items, Brient was always on the hunt for estate sales and auctions. Each event brought the chance of finding a new relic for his collection at what he hoped would be a great deal.

Faithfully serving his Lord, Brient was a member of Eureka Christian Church. There, he served as an Elder, a member of the CMF men’s group and men’s choir, and participated on various committees. A highlight for his service each year was helping with the annual harvest sale. For the past eight years, Brient displayed his faith through his service at Pleasant Union Christian Church. Each Sunday, you could find him faithfully greeting everyone at the front door with a bulletin, a smile, and a handshake. Brient loved the Lord and tried to offer all he could in service to Him.

Brient’s love for family knew no bounds. If there was anything they needed, they knew they could rely upon him. He readily offered words of encouragement and love, and was always looking for ways to bless his family. Through his generous spirit, Brient was a blessing to his family, his church, and his community.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 6, 2024 at in the fellowship hall of Pleasant Union Christian Church. A service to celebrate Brient's life will follow the visitation at 3:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of Peasant Union Christian Church with Rev. Frank Purvis officiating. Military honors will conclude the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Pleasant Union Christian Church, P.O. Box 1, Newton Grove, NC 28366.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.