Gary Francis Tillery

Gary Francis Tillery was called home after succumbing to complications from congestive heart failure on April 25, 2020. He was comforted in transition by his wife at home and surrounded by loved ones.

Gary was born to the late Fannie Mae Tillery September 25, 1938, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Raised in Vajello, California, by his mother and stepfather, Bert Graham, Gary graduated from Vallejo High School class of 1956. Following graduation, he enlisted with the U.S. Army and served in Europe until 1961. Gary moved to Seattle, Washington, in the late 1960s and soon after joined Boeing Company, where he worked for the next 35 years. In 1985, Gary met his best friend, soulmate and life partner, Helen Lenora Johnson. Often referring to her as his “Rock,” Gary would live the remaining and best years of his life with her by his side.

Gary gave his life to Christ in 2006 and joined First A.M.E. Church in Seattle, where he and his wife were active in the choir and other ministries.

In 2019, Gary and Helen moved to Houston, Texas, to spend their twilight years with their children and grandchildren. Although his time in Texas was short, he created lasting memories with his family and transitioned to heaven feeling blessed about the years God had allowed him on earth.

Gary is preceded in death by his: Mother – Fannie Mae Tillery, Stepfather – Bert Graham, (2) Sisters – Susan Graham and Nancy Owen, and Son – Gary Tillery, Jr.

Gary leaves behind to cherish memories his: Wife – Helen Johnson Tillery; Daughter – Roxanne McFadden; (2) Sons – Anthony and Steven Tillery, (2) Stepsons – Edward Johnson, Richard Johnson and wife, Doris; (2) Stepdaughters – Dorceia Smart, Jaha Williams and husband, Albert; (2) Nephews – Kevin Graham and Brian Stansberry; (13) Grandchildren – Janae, Blaine Jr., Kiara, Tiara, Anthony, Steven, Alexis, Mia, Khary, Caleb, Jada, Zion, and Albert; and (2) Great Grandchildren – Aidin and Summer.

Friends and Family can pay their respects by viewing the Facebook livestream on Friday, May 8, 2020 and any date thereafter at https://www.facebook.com/AmericanHeritageFuneral/videos/2666162530323284/?vh=e&d=n