Final Salute

Michael Lynwood Rilee peacefully departed on September 20, 2025, with his wife of 59 years, Joanne Rowen, surviving him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ella and Arthur Rilee, and his son, Robert Lynwood Rilee. He began working at his father’s sawmill when he was eight years old. A graduate of West Point High School and Emory & Henry College, he served four years in the U.S. Navy as a SEABEE. He retired from Dominion Power after twenty-six years of service and worked for the Virginia Electric Cooperative following his retirement.

He had a compassionate and generous nature, always making an effort to show kindness. He appreciated the small things that brought joy and shared them with those around him. He’s a gearhead with many interests, including travel, woodworking, mechanical projects, historical research, video games, watching old movies, golf, car racing, Redskins football, and Yankee baseball on TV. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren more than anything else.

He is survived by two sons, Michael Lee (and wife Monica) and William Joseph “Joe” (and wife Rachel), along with his sole and favorite daughter, Donna deShields (and partner Nicholas). He takes pride in his nine grandchildren, the youngest of whom is his cherished granddaughter, Emmy Dove.

He left West Point, but West Point never left him.

Michael wished to be remembered not with a service, but through support for a cause close to his heart. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made in his name to I AM ALS. Your contribution helps I AM ALS accelerate the search for effective treatments. It is important to note that his namesake is currently battling ALS, making this cause even more significant to the family. Please see Carewell’s online obituaries for more details.
Published in:Tidewater Review
from October 1, 2025
Send Flowers
Plant a Tree