Lavana Tilley's Obituary
Obituary For Lavana (Van) S. Tilley, Sr, 84, of Leesburg, Florida, peacefully entered eternal rest on Sunday, August 11,
2024, at his cherished home.
Born on January 29, 1940, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Van was the beloved son of Robert and
Adath Rees Tilley. He married the love of his life, Barbara, on October 3, 1959, and together
they built a life full of love and adventure.
Van was a proud graduate of Cape Central High School, Class of 1957, and dedicated 22 years of
service to his country in the Air Force. Following his military career, he spent 20 years working
with the United States Post Office, where his unwavering commitment and friendly demeanor
touched many lives.
A man of diverse passions, Van found joy in hunting, fishing, bowling, and attending airshows.
These hobbies were not just pastimes but ways he connected with friends and family, creating
lasting memories that will be fondly remembered.
Van was a devoted and loving father, husband, and grandpa. His warmth, wisdom, and
generous spirit enriched the lives of all who knew him. He is survived by his beloved wife,
Barbara Tilley of Aliceville, Alabama; their four children: Sandra Robinson (husband Jeff) of
Picayune Mississippi; Patricia Tilley of Umatilla Florida; Van Tilley Jr. (wife Carol Ann) of Debary,
Florida; and Bruce Tilley (wife Carol Lynn) of Osteen Florida. Van also leaves behind his sister,
Darlene (Mearlin) Allen of Cape Girardeau, Missouri.
He was a proud grandfather to Stephanie Tilley, Matthew Tilley, Sharisse Ross, Colleen Tilley,
Ryan Coniglio, Jenna Hughes, Jessica Winstead, Jordynn Webb and Amanda Collins, and a
doting great-grandfather to Lily Coniglio, Remington Tilley, Peyton Hughes, Haylee Winstead,
Shyann Winstead, Paisley Winstead, Gavin Collins, Amelia Collins, Reed Rivera and Liam Ross.
Van was preceded in death by his parents and eleven dear brothers and sisters. His legacy of
love and dedication will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to Tunnel To
Towers Foundation T2T.org, a cause close to Van’s heart.
Van will be remembered with great affection and will forever hold a special place in the hearts
of his family and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Lavana?
What’s a lesson you learned from Lavana?
Share a story where Lavana's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Lavana you’ll never forget.
How did Lavana make you smile?