Joseph "Pat" Lee Tillman

Pat Tillman, 70, of Thomasville, passed away on August 27, 2024. Born to the late Max and Anita Tillman, Pat spent much of his youth in Alaska and Germany due to his father’s military career, eventually settling in South Georgia in his teens. He was a graduate of Pelham High School.

Pat was a member of Barnett's Creek Baptist Church and also attended Dawson Street Baptist Church in Thomasville. He had a passion for bluegrass music, playing banjo, duck hunting, and fishing, with a special love for Lake Seminole, where he would often spend his days. Pat's love for bluegrass music was a significant part of his life. He not only played but also successfully operated a bluegrass festival in Thomasville for many years, bringing together friends and strangers alike in celebration of the music he cherished.

Pat is survived by his beloved wife, Becky Lee, his children April Gabor (Billy) of Atlanta GA, Patrick Tillman (Aimee) of Asheville NC, Rusty Lee (Teresa) of Montgomery City MO, and Betsy Turpin (Tony) of Thomasville GA, and was held dear by his adoring grandchildren Bela and Kala, Max and Julian, William and Doralynn, Bo, Brooke, Tanner and Emily. Pat leaves behind his siblings Mike Tillman (Karen) of Donalsonville GA, Melita Stone of Tallahassee FL, Raleigh Tillman Jr (Melanie) of Montgommery AL, and honorary brother Joe Mashburn of Prattville AL, as well as a host of nieces and nephews who will preserve his memory.

Pat's life will be honored and celebrated at a funeral service to be held Saturday, August 31, 2024 at Dawson Street Baptist Church at 10 a.m., led by Reverend Lee Waller. A visitation will take place at Allen and Allen Funeral Home on Friday, August 30, 2024 from 5-7 p.m. He will be laid to rest at Pine Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Coolidge GA.