Mary Tillman

Mary Elizabeth Tillman was born on Tuesday, October 27, 1942, in Fort Smith, Arkansas to the late Reverend Wiley J. Pettus and Geraldine Richardson. She accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior at an early age and was an avid member of Northeast Baptist Church until her health declined. She married her best friend and confidant Johnny C. Tillman and was blessed with 50+ blissful years. 

 Mary’s blunt but loving and caring personality was welcomed by many who loved her dearly. As a military wife, she touched many lives around the world from Arkansas, Washington, Germany and Tennessee. She wore many hats in her life as a wife, mother, grandmother, culinarian, caregiver, homemaker, etc. She loved spending time with family, friends and many neighborhood children whom she treated like a mother and grandmother. They all knew she was very stern but had a loving spirit and would give her last to anyone in need. 

 On May 25, 2024, her soul found eternal rest and peace with God. TAKE YOUR REST our beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister and Friend until we see you again! 

 She is preceded in death by her devoted husband, Johnny C. Tillman; daughter, Melody Mitchell; parents: Reverend Wiley J. Pettus and Geraldine Richardson; stepmother, Dorothy Pettus; brothers: Robert Wilson and Milton Martin. 

 Mary leaves to cherish her loving and precious memories to her six children: Charles (Desiree) Pettus, Houston, TX, Larry (Lawanda) Tillman, Clarksville, TN, Karen Jones, Murfreesboro, TN, Shawn Tillman, Nashville, TN, Crystal (Bryan) McCrackin, Jacksonville, FL, Derrick (Jessica) Tillman, Clarksville, TN; sister, Darcell (Darrell) White, Grandview, MO; 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.