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.
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20 Condolence(s)
Chris and Terrie Pickett
Saturday, November 2, 2024
My heart hurts for you Loretta. I know how much you loved your daddy. My thoughts and prayers are very much with you. I love you so much.
Naomi & Chris Guthrie
Friday, November 1, 2024
Loretta, we are so sorry for your loss. Prayers for all. Much love to you and yours, Chris, Naomi, Jillian & Ava Guthrie
Linda Mans
Monday, October 28, 2024
I am going to miss my friend and bonus brother. Another generation has come to an end, but I hope the values they instilled in you, family unity and love, and service to others, remain firm in your minds and hearts. May the peace of the Lord be with all the family at this trying time.
Wendy Cope
Monday, October 28, 2024
Mr Tilley was always kind and generous to me. Loretta and I became friends in the 90's as college students. Mr Tilley always welcomed me with a smile and fellowship. Always enjoyed seeing him and Mr Tilley remembering me, always made me feel like I was a part of his family. Thank you. Loretta I love you I am praying for you and your family
Dale and Jean Wood
Monday, October 28, 2024
We are so very sorry for y'alls loss. Heaven definitely gained a good man who will be missed by many. We are praying for peace, comfort, strength, and understanding for you all. May God continue to Bless you all spiritually, physically, and financially!!!!
Patty Blair
Monday, October 28, 2024
Gary and I are very sorry to hear of Harry's passing. Always enjoyed chatting with him at Sweet Treats. He will truly be missed.
Dawn and Mark Hawkins
Monday, October 28, 2024
So sorry, prayers for the family. We Loved Harry, we would see him 5 times a day out checking on the cattle by our house. He was a good man. God Bless.
Rick Tilley
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Harry was a good man that worked hard to provide for his family. He was also a man that had an encounter with Jesus that the fog of time couldn’t erase nor man talk him out of. He was a good son and a good brother. I remember many an hour listening to all of the “Tilleys” and their spouses telling stories around Grandma and Grandpas kitchen table. That’s where I had my first cup of coffee. That’s where I learned to love pinto beans, fried potatoes and fresh baked cornbread. It’s when I remember times like these that I realize how costly the time and distance has been. I know I’ll see them all again but right now, I miss them all.
Keith Jackson
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Bud and Maggie Harmon
Sunday, October 27, 2024
He was a great man. He will sure be missed. Our prayers are with you all
Leonard Baker
Sunday, October 27, 2024
You were a good man Harry. Earth lost one, but heaven gained one. I do not know if God lets you folks look down and see what we write in your guestbook but if He does-- I haven't forgotten that you offered to come and fix my plumbing when I was having a plumbing problem. With all of your knowledge and wisdom I'll bet the powers that be will promote you to be the head of some team up there.
I did not know that you had lived in Eugene Oregon. I lived 4 miles away in Springfield Oregon from 1945 till 1955.
Billie Page-Johnston
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Harry was Such a great person.
Love and prayers for the family.
Craig
Sunday, October 27, 2024
May you rest in peace Harry. Thank you for all you done for me. You were a big part of my life.
Bill & Star ?? Caldwell
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Warm thoughts & good memories
Hugs to the family
Rita Tilley and Jeremy and Danielle Zeller
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Deapest sympathanies from Rita Tilley and Danielle and Jeremy Zeller
Ann Evans
Saturday, October 26, 2024
So sorry to hear this Linda.My thoughts and prayers are with you and family and friends.
Glen Chavers
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Harry was a good man. He will be missed.
Linda Mans
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Brenda Evans
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Harry was like a big brother to me. I've known him since grade school. Lamar won't be the same without Harry Tilley.
Cindy Barker
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Angela and Michael,
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.
My Love,
Cindy Barker