Martha Tillman

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Martha Evelyn Tillman, 79, of Roselle Illinois. September 16, 1943 – April 20, 2023. Her passing was sudden and unexpected, but we are grateful that it was quick and peaceful. I have mastered the art of avoidance by delaying the publishing of this obituary. My mom has been my creative editor for everything I have ever written. So, without my editor, I have been very reluctant to publish this.
She is survived by her husband of fifty two years, Wayne Tillman, her daughter, Lorrie (Jeff) Mahoney and her two grandsons, Riley & Jaden Mahoney. Martha would not want me to forget Nessa, her beloved cat that she called a dog because she is so friendly and affectionate. She was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret (Cannon) and James Wadkins, her brother, James Wadkins Jr., and her niece, Holly (Wadkins) Rojas.

Martha was born in St. Petersberg, Florida. Her father was an ironworker which required them to move all over the South and Midwest states growing up. Martha moved with her family so often that she had attended fifteen schools by the time she graduated high school in 1961 from West Division in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

She then attended nursing school at Misericordia and Marquette University in Milwaukee. Not only did she graduate as an RN, but she was also introduced to the love of her life, Wayne, by her friend, Theresa Tillman. Martha insisted that it was love at first sight for her.

Martha married Wayne and moved to Roselle, Illinois. Once Martha became a mom to their only daughter, Lorrie (Tillman) Mahoney, she never returned to nursing. She loved working a seasonal job at her friend’s Halloween shop and eventually became a manager for the jewelry department at Sam’s Club.

Martha’s huge heart was so full when she married into a big family. She became an aunt and great aunt to 35 nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Martha’s lifelong dream of being a mother and an aunt was fulfilled. Martha managed to open her heart even wider when she earned her favorite promotion in life, GRANDMA! She felt blessed beyond measure to become grandma to her two grandsons, Riley and Jaden. She was so happy to attend many plays, choral concerts, sports games and birthday parties. She was known to be a willing and excited (also embarrassing at times) participant at roller skating parties and water parks. She took advantage of every opportunity to break out her dance moves and singing skills. There is nothing she enjoyed more than a big gathering surrounded by the love of family and friends. So please, bring your love, smiles and favorite memories of Martha on Saturday, June 3rd as we Celebrate her fabulous life. Visitation from 11:00-1:00, service at 1:00 at the Countryside Funeral Home in Roselle.