February 16, 2026, 83, Goldsboro – Raymond Paul Stilwell, age 83, went to be with his Lord and Savior early Monday morning, February 16, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family, just a few hours after celebrating his 83rd birthday.
Raymond was born on February 15, 1943, in Lincoln County, North Carolina, to the late Worth Odell Stilwell and Susan Bertha Stowe Stilwell. A man of quiet strength and deep devotion, Raymond proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he dedicated 20 years of honorable service and retired with the rank of Technical Sergeant.
Following his military retirement, Raymond continued his strong work ethic and friendly spirit while working at Lowe’s in Goldsboro, where he enjoyed staying active and connecting with others. He was a faithful member of Stoney Creek Original Free Will Baptist Church, where his love for the Lord and commitment to his faith were evident in his daily life.
Raymond was a devoted husband, a loving family man, and a steady presence to those who knew him. He will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and unwavering sense of duty—to God, to his family, and to his country.
Raymond is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Davis Stilwell; his step-daughter, Diane Deaver and husband, Durwood, of Pikeville; his sister, Rebecca Mack of Denver, North Carolina; his step-grandchildren, Dawn Lanier and husband Ken, Kimberly Deaver, Robbie Thompson and wife Libby, Matthew Thompson and wife Jeni, D.R. Deaver and wife Kim and Danny Deaver; and several cherished step great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Raymond was preceded in death by his step-son, Robert Thompson; his brothers, Clyde Dennis Stilwell, Franklin Stilwell, and Ralph Eugene Stilwell; and his sisters, Odel Hager, Lola Avery, Juanita Mashburn, Doris Mashburn, and Ilene Hager.
The family will receive friends on Friday evening, February 20, 2026, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. A graveside service celebrating Raymond’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Wayne Memorial Park, with full military honors. The service will be officiated by Rev. Barry Williamson.
Raymond’s legacy of faith, service, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
