Ann Tillman

Rita "Ann" Alford Tillman, age 68, of Palestine, Texas, passed away peacefully into eternity on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Palestine Regional Medical Center, with her loving family and friends surrounding her. Mrs. Tillman was born in Fairfield, Texas, on November 12, 1955, to parents Earsel E. (Red) Alford and Mareta L. Hudson Alford.

She leaves behind her husband of 33 years, Lenn Tillman, and her precious daughter, Hannah Tillman, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by brothers, Larry E. Alford and wife Pam, of Elkhart, and Lewis Wayne Alford and wife Jeanie, of Palestine; aunt and uncle, Mary and Bob Stech, of Palestine; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and many cousins.

Mrs. Tillman is preceded in death by her parents, sister Carolyn Crouse, and her niece, Susan Earnest.

Born and raised in the heart of Texas, Mrs. Tillman lived in Palestine and Neches most of her life. She was a proud graduate of Palestine High School's class of 1974, where she showcased her early zest for life as a member of the Kik-Kats Drill Team. Her passion for precision and grace on the field hinted at the meticulous and organized nature that would later define her professional life. For 36 years, Mrs. Tillman dedicated her career to the legal profession, serving diligently as a legal secretary and bookkeeper. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Neches and even though she could not attend in person, she always watched the services online.

Mrs. Tillman's interests extended far beyond the walls of her office. She was the life of every gathering, never missing an opportunity to sing, dance, and share laughter with those around her. Even though Mrs. Tillman was the youngest of four children, she was the historian and the glue for her family. She also loved her dogs fiercely. She was a friend to everyone she met, and she loved getting together with her countless friends and family members that she loved dearly and celebrating life.

Her laughter, a melody that will echo in our memories, reminds us to embrace life with the same fervor and passion she did. Mrs. Tillman's journey on this earth has concluded, but her spirit remains an indelible part of the tapestry of lives she touched.

Services to celebrate Mrs. Tillman's life will be conducted at eleven o'clock in the morning, on Saturday, the 13th day of January 2024, at Rhone Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Ann Tillman can be made to a charity of your choice.

Memorial services for Rita "Ann" Alford Tillman are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.

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Cremation and Memorial Services for Ann Tillman are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S, State Highway 19 Palestine, Texas.