David Alexander Tilley

David Alexander Tilley passed on July 18, 2026, at the age of 83, peacefully surrounded by family. Born August 11, 1942, David was the son of his late parents, Lee Clark Tilley and Mary Magdaline Lynch Tilley. Throughout his life, he was widely beloved for the steady goodness he carried into every day—marked by honesty, devotion, and a selfless way of showing up for the people who depended on him.

David’s life reflected hard work and quiet purpose. He held multiple career paths, including serving as regional manager of multiple U-Totem stores in NC and Alabama, working as a bus driver for the Rowan County school system, and later as custodian for First Methodist Church of China Grove. In each role, he brought a kind-hearted spirit and a faithful sense of responsibility—doing what needed to be done, doing it well, and doing it with care.

Above all, David was truly a family man. His life was about spending time with his family—playing with the kids, being present, and making sure he was there for everyone’s big moments. He was also a godly man who enjoyed going to church and was a member of the First Methodist Church of China Grove. In the example he set through steadfast love and service, David remained an inspirational presence to those who knew him best.

David was preceded in death by brothers, Donald Ray Tilley and Leroy Tilley, and sister, Lucille Juanita Tilley Rahme.

Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Kenny Dwayne Woodward, David Lee Tilley, and Michael Dean Tilley (Gail Bundow); brother, Robert "Sonny" Tilley (Shirley); sisters, Geraldine Tilley Glann, and Colleen Holcombe (James); grandchildren, Alicia Dawn Woodward (Brad Marlow), Kenny Dwayne Woodward Jr., David Lee Tilley Jr (Amanda), Dana LeeAnn Tilley, Jacob Nathaniel Dye, and Preston Alexander Dye (Taylor McClure); and great grandchildren, Laelynn Marie Marlow, Gracyn elizabeth Tilley, Owen Dean Tilley, Harper Lorraine Dye, Lawsyn Allen James Dye, and Maddox Blake Dye.

The visitation and funeral will take place at Linn-Honeycutt Funeral Home, on July 24, 2026. Visitation starts at 11:00 am and the funeral service starts at 12:00 pm. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 pm at West Lawn Memorial Park.

Condolences and messages of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.linn-honeycutt.com.

Linn-Honeycutt Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the care of David and his family.