Donald Nelson Tillman

Commander Donald Nelson Tillman, U.S. Navy (retired), known by his church and business friends as “Don”, by his Navy and family friends as “Dink”, and by his nine grandchildren as “Baba”, died peacefully at home and went to heaven on July 26, 2025. Born 83 years ago on June 25, 1942, in Lee County, North Carolina, he graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in Wood Science. Don lived a life devoted to service, family, innovation, and love until his final days in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

Don dedicated much of his life to his country, serving proudly as an officer in the U.S. Navy for 22 years. His warfare specialty as a Naval Flight Officer took him to sea flying in the F-4 Phantom and F-14 Tomcat. He was a superb Radar Intercept Officer (RIO) who was revered and respected by everyone with whom he served, officer and enlisted. His distinguished military career laid the foundation for his later ventures as he transitioned from the skies to entrepreneurship. After retiring from the Navy, Don launched several successful businesses and was a great mentor and leader to those in his employ.

His passions extended far beyond his professional endeavors. Don's interest as a tree farmer was always close to his heart, reminding him of his childhood, the simpler joys in life, and his connection to nature. Don enjoyed the company of family and friends, cherishing every meal shared with them. Whether gathering for breakfast, lunch, or a fishing trip, he was always bringing warmth, laughter, and camaraderie to each occasion. Authentic to who he was, Don consistently put others before himself, embodying the true spirit of friendship and humility without ever seeking recognition.

A devoted member of Kings Grant Presbyterian Church, Don's faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing him and his family with guidance and comfort throughout his years.

Don has joined his parents, William Warren Tillman and Zona Gaines Tillman, and his brother, William "Tony" Warren Tillman Jr. in peaceful eternity. His legacy continues through those whose lives he touched: his beloved wife of 58 years, Sue McCormick Tillman; his children, Michelle Gettier and her husband Trey; Michael Tillman and his wife Greyson; and Alison Teague and her husband Patrick as well as his cherished grandchildren: Rachel, Jack, and Olivia Gettier; Michael-Jon, Kathryn Grace, and Gabriel Tillman; Campbell, Knox, and Ivy Teague. He is also survived by his sister Zelda Tillman Howington, brother Michael Gaines Tillman, a vast extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, countless friends, and neighbors who were blessed to have known him.

The celebration of Don's remarkable life will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 3rd, at Kings Grant Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall following the service. A service will also be held at Euphronia Presbyterian in Sanford NC on Saturday September 20, 2025 at 3pm. Burial to follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that acts of kindness be passed forward, reflecting Don's enduring spirit of generosity.