Wilburn Ray Tillery

Wilburn “Ray” Tillery of Mesquite, Texas passed away on January 23, 2016. Ray was born on November 23, 1929 and raised in Dallas, Texas. Growing up during the depression, Ray started working at six years old and began a full time career as a truck driver in his teens. Ray met Jane Harmon (Tillery) at a truck stop/diner on his route from Dallas to California. He left his job to work at the truck stop with her, and the two wed on March 10, 1953 in Yuma, Arizona. Shortly after, the two moved to Mesquite, where he resumed truck driving for various companies, primarily Frozen Food Express. Ray later transitioned into air conditioning repair, working for various companies before completing his career with Mesquite ISD where he worked for 22 years. While working for Mesquite ISD, Ray became involved with the Masons. He joined Mesquite Masonic Lodge #928 and ultimately became a Worshipful Master. He was a member of The Order of the Eastern Star, Hella Shrine Temple, and the Hella A La Karts. Ray was an original member of the A La Karts and especially enjoyed participating in their parades. As long time members of First Baptist Church of Mesquite, Ray and Jane became involved with “Triple L.” They likewise enjoyed spending their time at Good Bar Senior Citizen Center. Ray also enjoyed reading, especially Western novels, and watching cooking shows. Most of all, Ray enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was dearly loved and will be deeply missed. Ray was greeted in heaven by his parents, Louis and Elsie Mae Tillery; his brothers Joe, Richard, and Louie Tillery; his wife of 61 years, Jane Harmon Tillery, and his granddaughter Karen Tillery. His life will continue to be remembered and celebrated by his sister Peggy Burns and brother Kenneth Tillery; his children - Jerry Tillery and his wife Kathy, Glenda Hester and her husband Jerry, and Gary Tillery and his wife Donna; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.