Ralph Jared Tillery, 70, of Clayton, NC, passed away on September 18, 2024. Born on February 15, 1954, to the late Milton Tillery and Lois Tillery.
Ralph is survived by his children, Christopher Tillery (Heather Tillery) of Selma, NC, Jennifer Wilson (Brent Wilson) of Clayton, NC, Susan Ventura (Efren Ventura) of Bossier City, LA, Jessica Garner (Richard Garner) of Clayton, NC, Jared Tillery of Lakeland, FL, as well as 18 Grandchildren and 2 Great Grandchildren.
Dad’s passing was sudden and unexpected but quick, just like he always hoped it be. Dad was one of the smartest people that we knew. All his children thought he would end up on Jeopardy. The amount of knowledge that he held was incredible.
Dad’s favorite pastimes included listening to his favorite music and driving to anywhere and everywhere. Dad was a lover of music with his favorite artist being Stevie Ray Vaughan. Dad also loved crooning to old country songs by Marty Robbins, Hank Williams, and Johnny Cash. Due to an accident several years ago, Dad was unable to drive. Thankfully, he was able to drive a month or two before his passing. He had the biggest smile on his face.
Dad took great interest in learning about the Tillery family and our descendants. He spent much time researching our ancestry, connecting with extended family members, and sharing what he learned with us.
He will be greatly missed.
A private family Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 13. Dad will then be taken to his favorite place, West Jefferson, NC, at a later date.