A memorial service will be held on August 9, 2025 at 10:00am at Coker Mathews Funeral Home, Greenville Texas, graveside service to follow at Mt Carmel Cemetery, Wolfe City, Texas.
Born on January 25, 1942, in Wolfe City, Texas, to Jesse Carl Tillery and Cleta Drum.
Growing up in Texas, Jerry attended Crozier Tech High School in Dallas, where he first began shaping the tireless work ethic that would define his life. After high school, Jerry embarked on a diverse and rewarding career journey that began at a local print shop in downtown Dallas. Never one to shy away from new opportunities, he would then move on to operate Broadway Skateland in Mesquite Tx, Funland Roller Rink in Cleburne Tx also continuing his skating experience with Tillinghast Enterprises as Manager of Skates and Sales. His desires for newness, broadening his horizons, led him to selling real estate, many years with Schwan's, traveling and selling for Power Master Battery and Supervisor with Henry T. Cole Shows. Never one for slowing down but time to stop traveling, he spent his final working years with Tetra Pak Inc, Security.
In his spare time, when his children were young, he coached Peewee football for the Blue Falcons in Mesquite Tx. Jerry's passions include car racing, classical music, free concerts in the park at Flagpole Hill, riding and racing motorcycles with his sons as they became older. In his 60's, mountain bike riding/racing became a part of his daily life, enjoying this sport with his sons and grandchildren, traveling around Texas for bike rally's, winning multiple awards including 1st place for the 12 miles of hell, men 65+. Discovering mountain biking brought him purpose in his retirement years, including becoming a Trail Steward for Horseshoe Trails in Grapevine, Texas.
Jerry was baptized at the age of 8 and in his older years stated he had found his spiritual following as he became a dedicated member of Center Point Christian Church, eventually guiding him to St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Jerry is survived by his daughters, Jerilyn Reinboldt (Dan) and Ladina Briganti (Matt), sons, Frank Tillery, Mark Tillery (Sharon), Clay Tillery (Dede), 17 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. Jerry also had friendships and kinships, Paula and Sandra, as well as pets, Stella and Mabel, all who held a special place in his life.
Jerry is proceeded in death by his parents and bother Tom Tillery.
The family would like to acknowledge and say a special thank you to the following;
Legends Healthcare & Rehabilitation for the care and love they showed our father during his time there. Every health care provider made each of his days extra special.
Hunt Regional Medical Center, 3rd floor staff including sitter, the best.
Condolences(2)
Paula Kelley
Allen, TX Wednesday, July 30, 2025 Jerry was a wonderful friend and will always have a place in my heart. Jerilyn, you were a wonderful daughter and caretaker. He was blessed to have you in his life. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and his family.Carrie Becker
Bowling Green, KY Sunday, July 27, 2025 I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful father. I love you bunches sweet Jerilyn. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.