(November 1, 1940 – June 30, 2023 )

TYLER — Funeral services for Billie Tilley, 82, are scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday at St. James Missionary Baptist Church, with Rev. Charles Dews serving as eulogist. Interment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park under the direction of John R. Harmon Undertaking Co.

Billie Gene Tilley was born November 1, 1940, in the Larissa community of Bullard, Texas to the parentage of Lester and Beedie Tilley. He departed this earthly life on Friday, June 30, 2023.

Billie attended Cuney High School in Cuney, Texas. He accepted Christ at an early age and attended Larissa CME church. He later was a member of Carter Temple Church in Tyler, Texas. Billie married the late Darwyne Kenney Tilley. They were married for 38 years until Darwyne was called to be with the Lord. This union produced two children, Yolanda Tilley and Celya Tilley.

Billie was employed at Tyler Pipe Industries as an iron pourer. He retired with over 30 years of service. He also moonlighted as a security guard with H.J. Control for over 10 years.

He was preceded in death by parents: Lester Tilley and Beedie Tilley, Sister; Bonnie Lacy, Wife; Darwyne Tilley.

Billie leaves to cherish his memories: two loving daughters Yolanda “Meka” Tilley and Celya Tilley; one granddaughter, Kennedy Darwynne Tilley; sisters, Ruth Webb, Myrtis Hollins, Sandra Walker (Curtis), and Linda Tilley; brothers, Dell Tilley (Faye), Glenn Tilley (Diann), Melvin Tilley, Leroy Tilley, and Paul Tilley; a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Public viewing will be held on Friday from 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home.