Virginia Harlow Tilton

Virginia “Ginny” Harlow Tilton had a happy childhood in the days before electricity had reached most homes in western Hanover County. Her father, Howard Harlow, called square dances and took Ginny and her younger brother, Charlie, hunting and fishing. Her mother, Burnelle Purvis Harlow, ran the household with kindness, humor and, when needed, a stern eye. On the first day of 8th grade, Ginny took note of the new school bus driver, a handsome older student named Andrew Tilton. Seven years later, Ginny and Andy embarked on a marriage that remained strong for nearly 67 years. After graduating from Montpelier High School, Ginny took a job with the telephone company in Richmond. Later, she focused on creating a loving home for her four daughters: Andrea (Randy Frazer); Clare (David Poole), Katie (Scottie McKenna) and Hallie (Raymond Neville). Ginny loved to fish, whether in a small pond or in five-foot swells off the Outer Banks. Later in life, she discovered a passion for golf. Even though her girls swam in the country club pool, Ginny never forgot her roots. She retained a down-to-earth wit and was quick to laugh at herself. When friends gathered on Friday evenings, Ginny would raise a glass of what she pronounced as “shur-AZZ” Over the years, Ginny and Andy were blessed with six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Her oldest grandchild called her “Mema” – and the name stuck. All her grandchildren were fortunate enough to grow up close enough to experience regular (if not daily) doses of her love and spoiling. She found any number of reasons to gather the family. Her children and grandchildren fondly recall the elaborately decorated cakes that marked their birthdays. Her yeast rolls, cobblers and pound cake wrecked many a diet. Ginny was always willing to lend a helping hand to her friends and family. She was sweet as pie, but she also was one tough bird. She beat breast cancer – twice. And, even at the end, she never lost her sense of humor. She died on Easter Sunday at the age of 86 with Andy and her daughters at her side. She will be missed by her family and everyone who was fortunate to have known her. A visitation will be held on April 20 from 5-7 pm at Nelsen Funeral Home in Ashland. In lieu of flowers, you may contribute in her memory to VCU Massey Cancer Center or to the Cemetery Fund at St. Peter’s Methodist Church, Montpelier, VA.