Luther Earl Lile
11/06/1948-06/16/2025
Luther Earl Lile, 76, of Charlestown, Indiana, passed away Monday, June 16, 2025, surrounded by family. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. Earl was a man of down-to-earth strength, laughter, and lifelong creativity. He lived a life of joy, service, family, music, and humor.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky, on November 6, 1948. Earl was raised in Charlestown, Indiana, and also loved spending time with his cousins in Greensburg, Kentucky.
Earl served for 20 years in the Louisville Fire Department, retiring as Captain at Truck 1. He continued in a second career as a fire code building inspector for another 20 years. He was respected by those who knew the integrity he brought to his work.
Earl was a gifted musician who loved to play many types of music. His playing of the guitar and fiddle, and his heartfelt voice touched those who had the privilege of hearing him. He played and sang in a few groups over the years, including Los Luddites, where he often shared songs he’d written about his love for family, places, and memories. Earl was also a skilled visual artist, with a talent for both drawing and painting.
He is remembered for his warmth, his laughter, his soothing voice, his caring way of listening. His stories - sometimes long-winded - would include impressive details of The Civil War, fire house anecdotes', and wisdom.
His hugs were unmatched, and his presence was easy, relaxed, and steady. His encouragement was given freely. He believed in the people he loved, and they could feel it.
Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Valeria Ennis Lile.
Earl is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Bonnie Lile, of Charlestown, Indiana; his brother, Eddie Lile; his sons, David (Edie) and Paul (Becky); his grandchildren, Cayla Davis (Jason), Carley Needham (Rex), Shelby Bowling (Zenas), Mark Lile, and Timothy Lile; his great-grandchildren, Eleanor Needham and Noah Davis; and many beloved cousins.
His family and friends remember him with great affection and respect. His legacy has left an everlasting impression of music, love, and joy. He will be deeply and forever missed.
A celebration of Earl’s life will be held at a later date.
Condolences (2)
J. Clifford
A respected firefighter and all around nice guy. He will truly be missed. RIP, brother.
Jimmy D Travis
I always looked forward being detailed as a firefighter from E-6 to Headquarters. There were more notable characteristics there than in most firehouses. Earl was one of them. I can remember him telling stories of fires past that E-6 and Truck 1 and E2 had fought together in Portland in the middle of the night with 40 miles hours wind blowing snow sideways and hydrants were not to be seen. But all was well. That is how Earl told it.