Donna Lee Tillery

She met Hubert Tillery on a blind date, and they married October 1976, who preceded her in death in 2005. For many years Donna worked in the food industry and retired from Virginia Beach Public Schools after 10 years. Her hands was her tool. Donna was a natural born Chef when it comes to cooking. She loved making collard greens, pasta salad and fried chicken. It warmed her heart to see people enjoying her food. She loved to sew and enjoyed making pillowcases for her grandchildren fixing a small hole in their socks or repairing a button on their shirt. She had an infectious laugh that make people smile. Her love for music was passed down to her children and grandchildren. Donna was very proud of being from Buffalo, NY.

She was a straight shooter. She spoke her mind even when you may not want her to. She was very protective of her family. Her grandchildren gave her so much joy. They gave her purpose and she was always there when they needed her. Donna had compassion for people. She would strike a conversation with anyone. Donna had a deep strength in her. No matter the obstacles she would keep fighting and preserver no matter what. She touched many people’s hearts in different ways.

Donna is survived by her sister Clara Castro and her brother Lawrence Wright; her five children, Teresa Ann Nickson, Matthew Richard Nickson, Angela Lynn Tillery, Donna Jean Tillery, Hubert Lamar Tillery and his wife Teresa Ann Tillery; her eight grandchildren, Demontrae Richard Boone, Jazzmin Alina Procaccini, Demetreus James Johnson, Krystina Ann Johnson, Devyn Robert Tillery, Myles Matthew Nickson, Matthew Malik Nickson, Kayla Lynnae Drummond; and her Great Grandson Malachi Boone.