Patricia Anne Tilton

Patricia Anne Tilton, beloved wife, educator, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2025, in Los Alamitos, California, at the age of 69. Born on September 18, 1955, in Honolulu, Hawaii—while it was still a U.S. territory—Patricia was the daughter of John and Anna Faraclas. She spent part of her early childhood in Germany, where she attended kindergarten while her father served in the U.S. Army.

A lifelong learner and dedicated educator, Patricia’s academic journey included Patrick Henry Elementary, De Mille Middle School, Lakewood High School, Cal State Fullerton, Cal State Long Beach, and the University of La Verne. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Cal State Long Beach and a Master of Education from the University of La Verne. Her passion for teaching led her to a career as a reading specialist in the Long Beach Unified School District, where she proudly became one of the district’s first National Board Certified teachers. She also mentored aspiring educators by teaching in the education department at the University of La Verne.

Patricia’s professional journey began with jobs at Piggly Wiggly, Gemco, Starkist, and Lakeshore. She was a per-school teacher at the Lakewood YMCA. Eventually, her calling led her back to school to earn her teaching credential and dedicate herself to the classroom, where she served with distinction until her retirement in 2016.

On March 5, 1977, Patricia married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Tilton. They met through mutual friends at Alpha Beta Markets, and their first date—a water-skiing trip to Lake Elsinore in March 1976—was lovingly arranged by her friend Gail. That day marked the beginning of a beautiful, 48-year marriage. Bob remembers Patricia as his constant companion, his greatest gift, and the heart of his life. “She was the best thing that ever happened to me,” he said. “I would not be the person I am today without her care and companionship for almost the last 50 years.”

Patricia had a gift for making others feel seen, supported, and loved. She was known for her warm spirit, her quick smile, and her full calendar—always filled with lunches and time spent with friends. She loved working with children, traveling (visiting all 50 states and nearly 50 countries), and, above all, taking care of Bob. Even early in their marriage, her mother would call weekly to check that she was taking care of him—something Patricia did every day of their life together, with grace and joy.

She was truly beautiful—inside and out—strong, loving, thoughtful, and full of life.

Patricia was preceded in death by her father, John Faraclas; her mother, Anna Faraclas; and her sister, Catherine Barker. She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Tilton; her nephew, Gregory Barker; niece, Stephanie Barker; great-nephews Nicholas, Joey, and Vinny Barker; niece-in-law, Amy Barker; and brother-in-law, Thomas Barker.

Patricia leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and quiet strength. She will be missed beyond measure.