Julius Tilley

     Julius Tilley Sr., 92, of Dover, Delaware, passed away peacefully of natural causes on December 19, 2025.

     Born in Dana, Kentucky, on May 11, 1933, Julius began life as a poor boy from the mountains, but through sheer determination, integrity, and hard work, he built a successful career and a life of purpose and dignity. His life story is a testament to the power of perseverance.

     Julius served his country in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class. His service instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility and discipline that carried over into every chapter of his life.

     Following his early years in the military, he had a successful civilian career, ultimately retiring as Vice President of Manufacturing at The Eagle Group. Outside of his professional life, Julius enjoyed fishing and playing cards with friends, listening to country music, and spending time with family. A self-made man, Julius built a life based on family, hard work, and financial responsibility.

     He is survived by his partner in life, Rosine Handsberry; his four children and their spouses, Julius Tilley, Jr. (Mary), Diane S. Tilley (Brett Russ), Bruce E. Tilley (Gillian) and John W. Tilley (Lisa); six grandchildren, Jennifer, Sarah, Jessica, Emma, Melinda and Jacob; and six great-grandchildren Owen, Kaylin, Austin, Lennon, Michael and Levi.

     A memorial service with military honors will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, January 5, 2026 at Pippin Funeral Home, where a gathering will begin at 10:00 am. Burial will be private.

     He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

     In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or one of the following veteran’s charities, Fisher House Foundation or Folds of Honor Foundation.      St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital  https:// www.stjude.org/give/memorials-and-dedications.html  or Fisher House Foundation  https://fisherhouse.org  or Folds of Honor Foundation https://foldsofhonor.org

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