Barbara Pearlenore Kelly Tillman, 86, passed away peacefully early Thursday morning, September 24, 2020, surrounded by her loving family and caregivers. Barbara was born in Troy, NC on December 19, 1933.

She attended North Carolina Central University and taught in the Montgomery County school system.

Barbara was a woman of God and exercised her faith in all her endeavors. She was a member of Greater First United Baptist Church. She belonged to several civil and social organizations, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., The Links, Inc., and the Alpha Art Club. She loved traveling and fashion, and could always be spotted in the most glamorous attire.

Family was everything to Barbara. She and her husband, the late Dr. Otis Tillman, Sr., were married September 1, 1956. This union was blessed with four children, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Otis, her parents, Theodore and Pearlie, and her brothers, Harold, Cato, Preston, and Richard.

Barbara’s kind demeanor and wisdom touched the lives of so many people. Though gone from us physically, the priceless memories of her love and laughter will live on forever.

A private funeral service will be held Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel. Interment will follow at Carolina Biblical Gardens. Mrs. Tillman may be viewed on Tuesday, September 29, 2020 at Phillips Funeral Service Chapel from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.