Theresa J. Tillmes

Theresa “Terri” Jennie Tillmes (George), 95 of Milford, Delaware passed away peacefully on October 27th, 2024.

At this time, the family will be holding a private remembrance to honor and celebrate Theresa’s life in East Windsor, NJ. Cremation was performed by Berry Short Funeral Home in Milford, DE.

Theresa was born in East Orange, NJ, on April 30th, 1929, to Leonard George and Carmelina (Mildred) Pierro. She grew up in New Jersey and was one of seven children. Theresa loved animals and was known for bringing home stray cats as a child. She continued that love of animals throughout her life, rescuing and training many dogs over the years.

Theresa eventually moved to West Orange, NJ, and wed Arthur (Art) E. Tillmes, Jr. on April 24, 1955; they were married 51 years prior to Art passing in 2006.

She was a homemaker and also managed the scheduling of the family chauffeur business, Tillmes Limousine, for over 30 years. She was known for her kind heart and always having coffee ready for the drivers at a moment’s notice. She was an excellent cook and baker and loved having family over for Sunday dinners, holidays, and other special occasions. Her home often smelled of homemade gravy (sauce), for which she would spend the entire day in the kitchen preparing. She loved hosting summer pool parties and made the best ice cream sodas. She loved her family and had one of the purest and most welcoming hearts.

Theresa and Art moved to Delaware in the early 1990s to be closer to their grandchildren, where she worked for Arby’s in Milford, DE as a hostess. She enjoyed interacting with customers in that role, and used to say it never felt like work.

Theresa didn’t travel much, but did enjoy getting a “wash and set” by the beautician every Friday, as well as taking trips to the casinos in both Atlantic City, NJ, and Harrington, DE.

Theresa is survived by her brother Gerald (Chet) George and his wife, Grace, grandchildren, Jacqlene (Jackie) Hanks and her husband, Hubert (Hue) Hanks III, and Arthur (AJ) E. Tillmes, IV, as well as numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Theresa is preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Carmelina, sisters, Margaret (Marge), Antoinette (Ann) Hoch, Rose (Rosie) Praitano, brothers, Leonard (Lenny) George, and Joseph (Joe) George, husband, Arthur (Art) Tillmes, Jr., and son, Arthur (Artie) E. Tillmes, III.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to:

The Humane Society of the United States.

1255 23rd Street, NW, Suite 450

Washington, DC 20037