Jean "GiGi" Tillman

Jean was born on May 23, 1949, in Bethel, North Carolina, to the late Mack and Emma Jenkins. She spent her early years in North Carolina before relocating to New York with her family. Jean graduated from Woodrow Wilson Vocational High School, now known as August Martin High School. She began her career with Jet Air Freight before embarking on a second career in 1995 as a teacher's assistant and teacher at St. Clare's School in Queens, New York, where she faithfully served for 21 years. She loved her students dearly and found great joy in watching them learn and grow.

On October 29, 1973, Jean married the love of her life, Eddie Tillman. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and love. She created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional support. Her greatest joy came from encouraging her children, celebrating their accomplishments, and spending time with her beloved husband.

Jean's love for God was evident in the way she served others. For more than 30 years, she was a devoted member of Massapequa Tabernacle, faithfully serving over 20 of those years in the television ministry. Jean had a genuine heart for people and was always looking for ways to help others—whether through financial support, providing meals, donating clothing, or offering wisdom and encouragement. She loved sharing her faith and inviting others to church.

Her dedication, humility, and servant's heart left a lasting impact on her church family, work family, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Jean is survived by her two sons, Bryan Tillman of Atlanta, Georgia, and Terence Tillman of Las Vegas, Nevada; her daughters-in-love, Takiya Tillman and Patrice Hartwell; her sisters, Barbara "Bobbi" Sims and Hattie Dottery; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and cherished friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eddie Tillman; her parents, Mack and Emma Jenkins; and her two brothers and a sister.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Full Gospel Tabernacle, 4100 Jerusalem Avenue, Massapequa, New York 11758. Burial will immediately follow at Calverton National Cemetery, 210 Princeton Boulevard, Calverton, New York 11933.

Though she will be deeply missed, Jean's faith, kindness, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched. Her legacy of service, compassion, and devotion to God and family will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be held at Full Gospel Tabernacle, 4100 Jerusalem Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758, US, on June 19, 2026, from 9:30 am to 10:00 am, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location from 10:00 am to 11:30 am.

Burial will take place at Calverton National Cemetery, 210 Princeton Blvd, Calverton, NY 11933, US, on June 19, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.