Tilton Bernard Jones

Raised in the vibrant community of Brunswick, Bernard attended Glynn Academy High School, proudly graduating in 1975. He pursued further education at Armstrong State College in Savannah, Georgia, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science on December 5, 1985.

In 1990, fate led him to Linda Graham, the love of his life, in Brunswick. Their bond blossomed, leading to a joyful marriage on January 28, 1993, in Beaufort, South Carolina. The couple shared an incredible thirty-one years together, reveling in life’s moments. They had a unique passion for coordinating their outfits as they enjoyed outings to movies, concerts, plays, and music festivals. Bernard had a particular fondness for hats and caps of all styles and colors, often treating Linda to new ones to add to her wardrobe

Bernard’s career was as rich and expansive as his personality. He made meaningful contributions as a Residential Advisor at the Brunswick Job Corps Center, a Food Stamps Counselor with the Department of Family and Children Services, and an Employment Specialist for the Georgia Department of Labor. In 2004, Bernard and his family moved to Columbia, Maryland, where he joined Adams and Associates, Inc. as a Placement Coordinator and later took on the role of Pre-Employment Training Instructor. His journey continued with the Baltimore Housing Mobility Program as a Post-Move Housing Counselor, eventually transitioning to the position of Landlord Relationship Specialist with the Baltimore Regional Housing Partnership in January 2015. After dedicating years to these roles, Bernard proudly retired in 2023.

A creative and gentle spirit, Bernard had a deep appreciation for music and the arts. During his high school years, he played the French horn in the Glynn Academy High School Band and nurtured a lifelong love for reading and poetry. Bernard was also a devoted member of St. Paul Baptist Church in Brunswick, where he was baptized, and he remained actively involved in his community. Notably, he founded and operated the African American Institute for the Arts, offering disadvantaged youths in Brunswick a platform for creativity and self-expression. Bernard's infectious sense of humor brightened every room. He had a special knack for giving everyone an endearing nickname, never referring to anyone by their given name, and making everyone feel special.

On October 30, 2024, Bernard departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and joy. He is survived by his two cherished children: his daughter, Victoria Janese Jones of Columbia, Maryland, and his stepson, Keita Antonio Sams of Brunswick, Georgia. His memory will also be lovingly held by his siblings: Connie Jones-Hamilton of Atlanta, Georgia; Anderson Jones Jr. of Tacoma, Washington; Elijah Jones of Midway, Georgia; Pearl Lowry and Dorothy Montanez of Rochester, New York; Mary Francis King of Syracuse, New York; and Bernice O’Kelly, Annie Mae Wright, and Vernella Mitchell of Georgia. He was preceded in death by his siblings Marjorie Alexander, Maggie Smith, and Joseph Jones. Additionally, he leaves behind a host of loving nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends, all of whom will profoundly miss his warmth and spirit.

Bernard's life was a profound reflection of love, creativity, and a deep sense of community. His extraordinary ability to connect with others forged bonds that transcended the ordinary. His bright spirit infused joy and inspiration into every interaction, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy, rich with warmth and passion, will persist, echoing in the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his love and kindness.

Visitation will be held Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00 am followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am in the Chapel of Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home, 3321 Glynn Avenue, Brunswick, Georgia 31520. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, 1505 Newcastle St., Brunswick, GA.