Richard Ray Tilley

Richard Ray Tilley, of Lenoir NC, was called home to get his angel wings on Saturday June 6,

2024. He was only 47 years old. Richard leaves behind his father John Tilley, an uncle James

Woodring, two aunts Sandra W Gilbert, and Betty Kaylor. He also leaves behind one cousin

Melissa J Hicks ( aka Missy or Cuz as Richard called her) He was preceded in death by his

mother Joanne Tilley, two uncles Robert Woodring and Terry W Gilbert, and his loving

grandparents who raised him, Gene and Donzola Woodring.

Richard had a very hard start coming into this world but because of the unconditional love and

care of his loving grandparents he was able to use the past to help him become a sweet, kind,

loving and caring man, who had such a big heart. Richard touched the lives of many people with

his loving heart, and heart warming smile. He was the type of person that never met a

stranger, and if he called you a friend he'd do anything he could to help you. He would never

just tell someone bye, he would always tell you “I love you and I'll pray for you” and to him they

wasn't just words, he truly meant it with all of his heart.

Even though his wings were ready to carry him home to be with his grandparents, our hearts

were not ready at all. Richard, with his big heart, amazing smile, heart warming laugh, and loving

nature will always be missed. He may be gone, but he'll never be forgotten. He lives on in the

hearts of everyone that knew and loved him.

The family will be receiving friends and anyone wanting to pay their respects to Richard on

Sunday, July 14 at 2:00 pm at Redwood Park ; ( a special place to Richard) located at 470

Redwood St in Hudson ; for a memorial celebration of his life.

In lieu of any donations or flowers, the family has asked everyone to help fulfill Richard's last

wishes. He always said that he didn't want a sad service with everyone crying, but he wanted a

celebration of life instead. So in regards to his last wishes people are asked to bring either a

meat or/and cheese tray- two things he loved. And to bring a balloon that will be released in the

celebration of Richard at 3:30 PM.

Gone but NEVER forgotten.

Evans Funeral Service is honored to serve the Tilley family.