of Lamar, AR

August 23, 1943 - October 23, 2024

Harry Tilley, a farmer, businessman, former Lamar Alderman and U.S. Army veteran, died October 23, 2024. Harry was born Aug. 23, 1943 in Lamar with his twin brother Larry and spent many of his formative years in Eugene, Oregon before returning to Lamar and graduating there in 1961. He was drafted into the U.S. Army for service during the Vietnam War and would spend most of his time in Germany.

He is survived by Linda Evans Tilley, his wife of more than 57 years; a son, Michael Tilley and wife ,Angela of Fort Smith and a daughter, Loretta Young and husband, Danny of Hagarville. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Brett Young, Devan Young, Ely Young, Josie Tilley and Anna Claire Tilley and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by Maria and Salvador Flores, and their children, Linda, Jahilit, Keyli and Matthew.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Josie and Freed Tilley of Lamar and sisters, Loretta Crotts and Sue Frost Hatchett and brothers, Wayne, Dwayne, Ernest, Elbert and Larry. He was the last of the Freed and Josie children.

For several decades he and Linda operated a successful construction and specialty coatings business, employing many people in the Lamar area. He was also a farmer and raised cattle, poultry and produced hay. He also owned the first coin-operated car wash in Lamar that kept thousands of cars clean over the years except for those days when his distracted teenage children forgot to refill the soap tank.

Harry also volunteered his time and used his farm equipment to keep property clean that would eventually become the city park. He also supported the Lamar restaurant economy with numerous breakfast and lunch trips, often with former high school friends during which they would solve many of the world's problems.

Honorary pallbearers are Christy Blythe, Craig Cash, Gary Crotts, Steven Crotts, James Duff, Kevin Frost, Jimmy Harmon, Kavin McCarley, Gerald Palmer, James Ruble, James Tate and Shanon Tilley.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Nov. 2nd at the Lamar Baptist Church. A visitation will be held at 1 p.m. prior to the service. The service will be followed by a brief graveside gathering. The graveside will be followed by a meal at the church.

Instead of flowers or contributions to a fund or organization, in his memory please commit an act of kindness a few times a year; buy someone a meal; surprise a family with free groceries and/or contribute to a local food bank; provide someone a ride to and from a medical appointment; or leave a generous tip to a young, hardworking waiter. His family is confident you are surrounded often by opportunities to exhibit active empathy.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Cox Funeral Home
Rogers & Poplar Streets
Clarksville, AR  72830
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com