Dena Lynn Lilley

Dena Lynn Lilley, born Dena Lynn Shores in Vallejo, California, was called home to be with the Lord in Hobbs, New Mexico. While our hearts grieve her absence, we take comfort in knowing she is rejoicing in Heaven — her beautiful, infectious laugh surely echoing in glory.

Dena was a woman of strength, resilience, and unwavering love. Life was not always easy, but she faced it with determination and grit, working tirelessly to provide and care for those she loved. She took pride in her work and was deeply loved by her coworkers, who knew her not only as a dedicated and hardworking woman, but as someone who brought warmth and light into the workplace each day.

Above all, Dena’s greatest calling was her family. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Chelsea Webb, and a proud and loving mother-in-law to Tyler Webb. Her heart expanded even more when she became “Gam Gam” to her cherished grandchildren, Fury Webb and Ansyn Webb. Being their grandmother was one of her life’s sweetest blessings. She adored them beyond measure, and her love for them was tender, fierce, and unmistakable.

Dena is also survived by her brothers, Scott Shores and Michael Shores; and her sister-in-law, Nicci Shores, who, alongside Scott, shared in years of family memories, traditions, and a bond that time could never diminish.

She had a joyful, lighthearted spirit and a gift for finding happiness in life’s simplest moments — relaxing by her pool in the summer sunshine, laughing until her sides hurt, and spending precious time with her daughter and grandbabies. Her laugh could fill a room, and her presence made a house feel like home.

Her faith carried her through life’s trials, and now we trust it has carried her into eternal peace. Though we will miss her deeply, we hold onto God’s promise that this goodbye is not forever.

Dena’s legacy lives on in the strength of her daughter, the laughter of her grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth and joy. She was deeply loved, and she will be forever missed until we meet again.