This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Dr. Lawrence G. Lilliston, Ph.D., psychologist, social activist, Virginia gentleman and unconventional man.  He was born in Wachapreague on Virginia's Eastern Shore, the son of Berney and Ventrice, and the younger brother of Sam.  Later, Larry would often entertain his children and their friends with stories about growing up on the Shore. 

He attended the University of Virginia, and after dropping out, enrolled at the College of William and Mary where he met his future wife Cecilia. He attended graduate school at Xavier University in Cincinnati, and later Temple University in Philadelphia, where he earned his Ph.D. in Psychology in 1969. 

In 1968, his son Ben was born and two years later his second son Jean-Paul was born. In 1970, the family moved to Fayetteville where Larry taught at the University of Arkansas. In 1973, they moved to Rochester, MI, where Larry taught Psychology at Oakland University, serving as chair of the department in the early 1990s. 

His research focus spanned from his early years on the causes of schizophrenia to the study of the health and well-being of children living within marginalized religious communities. The intersection of psychology, children and religion was a particular focus, and he published many articles on the topic, and in the areas of values and coping. He was working on a book on mindfulness in children at the time of his death.  Larry always loved being in the classroom and teaching, and was mentor to many who went on to become psychologists themselves.  In his active private practice, he specialized in behavior modification and counseled children, teens and adults.

As an undergrad, he slung burgers with a Prince, hung out with Tom Robbins, shot pool with William Faulkner, and almost became a poet. As a young professor at Arkansas, he played charades with colleagues Bill and Hillary, and poet Miller Williams. For research, he lived with Hare Krishnas, studied new religious movements like The Family, drove the Badlands, and railed against the government assault in Waco.

He marched the Walk of Freedom in Detroit with Dr. King, travelled the world, rooted for the underdog, supported peace, believed in the golden rule, and performed Zen twirls.

Following the death of his first wife, Cecilia, renown social worker, in 1996, Larry met the second love of his life, Vicky Billington, whom he married in 2002. He is survived by his wife Vicky, sons Ben and JP, daughter Carson, daughters-in-law Julie and Ana, granddaughters Chloe, Melanie and Oriana, and sweet pup Gracie. 

Larry was a wonderful and hilarious story-teller. He loved music, food, books, arts and sports, and was a formidable Jeopardy player because of his knowledge of many subjects. 

He is greatly missed. 

We'd love to hear your memories, thoughts and stories about Larry.

Those who wish to further honor his memory may do so through a contribution to one of his favorite charities, Sojournors, at:http://bit.ly/LGLMemorial