We all miss you Dad, but I use the things you taught me every day.  

Ray

One year has come and gone and yet it seems like yesterday that you were smiling with that twinkle in your eye!  I miss you Dad...wish you could have been here to watch Ryan & Betsy get married.  I know you were with us though....always our angel.  Love you Dad!

I miss you Dad!  I think about you all the time.  I keep trying to live, exist without you..its hard.  I think about you and always smile and laugh thinking about the fun we had.  I love you!! Patrick..

Sam was a wonderful, interesting person to be around.  Ruth Ann, Becki, Reggie, Georg and myself would meet at Wendy's occasionally on the weekend for lunch.  Sam always had great stories he would tell us about his adventures throughout his life.  We would be at Wendy's for several hours enjoying his stories.  Sam often called Wendy's Max's place. When I eat at Wendy's I'll always think of Sam.  May you rest in peace.

When I think of Grandpa strong images of hard work, family values, humor and dedication is what comes to my mind. While I did not grow up geographically close, Grandpa was always a huge influence in my life with the example he set leading his own life. I remember being in such amazement as a child listening to Grandma and Grandpa’s exiting stories of living abroad and thinking they were the greatest thing since Grandma’s cookie jar! To hear about being in the middle of a civil war and still trying to make it to work was fascinating and made you appreciate both his work ethic and simply having these two wonderful people in our lives. We have Grandpa’s name plate from Firestone at our apartment and every time I look at it I’m reminded that Grandpa traveled all around the globe for them, and worked with early computer systems, my enthusiasm for both travel and technology undoubtedly stemmed from these stories and my respect for Grandpa. 
  
Grandpa also helped define family values for me in many ways. To watch his never ending love for his grandchildren, his own children and especially Grandma never stopped amazing me. We don’t need to look any further than the picture covered wall in their living room and the trips he and Grandma would frequently make during the summer to know how important family is to them. But it more than making the effort to travel and see one another, Grandpa always seemed to see the best in everyone and wanted to help bring it out. On one trip to see us in Chicago me and Grandpa ended up in the yard tossing a baseball and after my first or second pitch I see an ear to ear grin form as he begins to walk over to me. As I second guessed myself, wondering if I had thrown it wrong, Grandpa comes and says “Now Tom, you have a choice. That arm of yours is a rocket; do you want to be quarterback or a pitcher?” While I never became a star quarterback or an ace pitcher, Grandpa’s optimism and genuine belief that I could do whatever I choose has always stuck with me and I’m so glad that we shared that moment. One thing that did rub off on me was his humor and his unique ability to be himself, even if it would at times embarrass others!  While I have yet to sport a dashiki or pass a bill along to Marry, I have learned from Grandpa the value in making people you don’t know laugh and taking the time to talk with them to hear there story and share your own. 

I miss Grandpa a lot already, but I’m really glad that I got to spend as much time as I did with him. The way in which he led his life seemed to have a positive effect on everyone around him and we will all miss him deeply. He left me with so much and I hope that through my own dedication to work, family and love of life his lessons continue on. I love and miss Grandpa, but I like to think he is still here with me, advising me on a Heart’s hand, explaining a pitchers motion or giving practical advice when I need it the most.

Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote: "To laugh often and much; To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; To earn the appreciation of honest critics, and endure the betrayal of false friends; To find the best in others; To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived;  This is to have succeeded" 
When Samuel Raymond Tillett II is greeted to heaven by our Lord, may he hear "Well done my child - welcome home".   How blessed we are to have known you, Sam.

My Dad, together with my Mom, are and always will be the two greatest people in my life.  Together they made a wonderful family for Becki, Pat and me.  We had a lot of fun together, but both of them also taught us what was important...to know right from wrong...to be honest...to always try to do the right thing...to respect others and listen to their opinions...that education was an investment in yourself...the importance of family. 

The lessons were more than just lectures and words and Dad, in particular, was a person who lived by all of these things.  In the corporate world this honesty sometimes worked to Dad's disadvantage, but he did not care and was satisfied so long as he had given a job or assignment his best and been open with his colleagues and superiors about the true state of affairs and what needed to be done...even if saying it made him less than the most popular person in the office.

Dad was a great problem solver.  He put all of himself into solving a problem.  But more than the energy and 110% effort he put into solving a problem, he always focused first on getting the facts and thinking through what was the best course of action.  He was not one to waste time in overthinking something, but he also did not just jump into situations and react.  He knew how to analyze and solve problems.  I really think he believed that no problem was too big or tough that it could not be solved.

I will also remember all of the time he spent with me playing catch with the baseball and football and playing chess, checkers and hearts around the kitchen table. This also goes for the times when all of us needed help with our homework and in particular with math.  He always had time and energy for us even though he must have been very tired when he came home from work.

Dad loved people, found people always interesting and gave and got a lot in his relations with people.  I think it is fair to say that he would much rather have a conversation with someone than take a trip to see a famous sight.  He had a great love of life and this came through in the fun that he had with people.  No one was a stranger for long around Dad.  I will add that Dad was a terrific baseball coach, but actually the thing I love him for the most was how he spent as much or more time with the really terrible and hopeless kids on the team.  Sure enough, he always got more out of them than anyone thought was possible and made them feel as much a part of the team and its success as the kids who were the stars.  Dad was realistic about what people could do, but optimistic about the ability of anyone and everyone to make themselves better and improve with some help and the possiblity that everyone has to help make an effort a success.

I already miss Dad so much.  At the same time, he gave us so much that will continue to stay with us and help us as we struggle with our lives.

Sam Tillett was a great person to be around. He was full of ideas and was always encouraging and supportive. He had an infectious character that seemed to rub off on you so that when you left him, you felt better than when you met him. 

Sam Tillett loved dialogue and interaction with other people. He could always keep a conversation lively. Sam was always willing to discuss or talk about any subject, especially politics and sports. With me, it was usually sports. We shared many stories about football, basketball and baseball. Sam usually did most of the talking while I listened. Sam and I shared a lot in common when it came to sports. We both played the same 3 sports in high school â€“ football, basketball and baseball, and the same 2 sports in college â€“ football and baseball. Sam grew up in Akron, Ohio and played for his hometown university, the University of Akron. I grew up in Berea, Ohio and played for my hometown college, Baldwin-Wallace College. Sam's Akron football team played B-W while he was in school, and my head coach, Lee Tressel, played for B-W at the time. Sam used to love telling me about how his teammates would try to get Tressel, and anyone else they could, out of the game. He would lament in how successful they were in getting my coach out of the game on the opening kickoff! Sam never tired of telling that story, and I never tired from hearing it. I'll always remember that one. 

We also enjoyed watching or talking about Ohio State football games. I can remember watching games together, and Sam getting so excited at times that he would try to mimic the ball carrier and jump around in his seat as if he was trying to avoid a tackle. His enthusiasm could get pretty animated and was comical to watch. I was scared to sit next to him on the couch for fear that he would tackle me if a defensive player was trying to make a tackle.

Sam was especially keen about baseball and was always eager to talk about strategy, pitching mechanics and coaching. I will miss his baseball stories as well.

As I reflect upon our time together, I realize that I was very fortunate to have had Sam Tillett as a father-in-law. Sam used to kid me by telling me that I was his favorite son-in-law. We would chuckle because we both knew that I had to be his favorite by default, as Sam and Ruth Ann only had one daughter, my lovely wife, Becki. While I could only ever have one father-in-law, Sam was the best, and I'm glad he was mine.

Reggie Brooks
Son-in-Law

When I remember Grandpa I think most about his unique personality.  Grandpa loved interacting with friends, family and strangers and sharing his unique ideas with everyone.  I have used unique twice (now three times) in as many sentences because I really feel that is what Grandpa was.  I have not meet anyone who could find and focus on bring out the positive qualities in those that he loved like Grandpa.  He was bold, kind, insightful, truthful and inspirational.  I will carry on the name of Sam Tillett with great pride with Grandpa always in my spirit.  I love and miss you Grandpa

Perry and I remember the warm  Thanksgiving dinner we shared last year with your family. Matt's grandfather spoke of his fond memories watching Matt play golf. Our thought and prayers are with you and your family.
Perry and Christina Leenders

My Grandfather was the most kind and caring person I have ever known.  He had a way of making people laugh and interact with him in a way that I may never know.  I will always remember the great times we had with Grandpa and I will cherish his memory forever.
I'll miss you Grandpa.

~Ryan Brooks
~

So sorry for you loss to Patrick, Tracey and the Tillet family.  Words are hard to put together at times like these but you must draw on your memories and love.  My prayers and thoughts to you and your family,

I remember meeting Grandpa Sam on my first trip to Arizona several years ago. Sam and Ruth Ann both embraced me into this family, and for that I am thankful. I feel lucky to have gotten to know Sam and spend time with him during my time in Arizona. He had a warm smile and a way of making everyone laugh. Becki and Ruth Ann, I am thinking of you and am sorry for your loss. Love now and always.

I didn't get to spend a great amount of time with Sam while he was alive, but he had a way about him that always made me feel welcome.  I wish I would have been able to spend more time with him, but I will always remember the times we did spend and the way he accepted me into the family.  I will miss him very much, but I know his is looking down on us all and smiling.

I have a lot of memories of my grandpa taking me and my brother to golf tournaments.  The one that comes to mind most often is one where after an event, he took us through a McDonald's drive through for some food.  My brother and I sat in the car, embarrassed to no end, as Grandpa talked to the drive through attendant for five minutes about how good we were at golf and how proud he was of us.  He didn't care that there was a line of cars forming behind him.  At that moment, all I could feel were the eyes of each person in the line looking at us, waiting for us to move.  Looking back, however, I think that moment summed up what kind of effect he could have on people.  I can't think of too many people who could hold a five minute conversation with a total stranger and have them hanging on their every word.  I also can't think of too many people would would take the time out of their day to have a five minute conversation with a total stranger just to let that person know how proud they were of their grandsons.  Grandpa had that sort of effect on people.  He had the ability to capture the attention of anyone he talked to, and had the ability to leave them with a smile on their face.  He embarrassed me more times than I can recall, but in the end, everytime he did it, he made me smile.  I love you and miss you Grandpa.

I loved my grandpa so much, its hard to believe he is gone. I loved how much spirit he had, he was truly one of a kind. I really admire his outgoing personality, how he could just go up to any stranger and talk like they were friends. I feel my dad has the same quality too, and I try to live the same! I am just really glad grandpa got to meet my son, Landin, his only great grandchild so far. It was really neat to see four generations of Tilletts together. I miss you grandpa, and I am excited for when we see each other again. Until then, I will keep by your words, "Mary did it"

I remember Sam so clearly from the time I met him in 1973.  Sam taught me a lot about other ways to see the world.  I may not have entirely appreciated my "Arhice Bunker father-in-law" at the time, but his sense of humor makes much more sense to me now!

Sam and Ruth Ann were wonderful in-laws and grandparents, and I have always been grateful for their kindness and generosity..  

It is a strang quirk of fate that my own mother and Sam died within two weeks of each of each other and that their funerals were both at 11:00 on October 23,, 20010.  I think they must be sharing a cigarette on some cloud in heaven and watching over us all!  Susie Page Tillett, Ray's first wife, mother of Sam and Tom

My life growing up, was pretty special!  We didn't have a lot of material things, but we always had each other and shared much love.  As a child, it was magical....so many memories, so much laughter..I always thought our family could have been a TV sitcom.  When I reflect upon Dad's life, I marvel.  He was allergic to everything as a baby, and sickly as a young child, and yet he grew into one of the strongest people I've ever known.  He was our "rock" that we always turned to.  He never let his health get into the way of what he wanted to accomplished.  The sports he played, made him stronger physically and mentally.  He always told us, through his example, that we could do anything we wanted as long as we worked hard and believed that we could.
Sometimes we fought,usually because of my boyfriends or teaching me math, but it was mainly because we were so much alike.  He gave me so much in my life...when things seemed hopeless, Dad always helped me find a solution.  
Dad, you are my hero - my inspiration.  You were the underdog who never gave up, inspired us and is forever loved by all.
So proud to be your daughter forever and after. Becki  XOXOXO

My grandpa was the most interesting man in the world. And I mean WORLD, because he had lived all over the world. He may not have cured diseases or discovered world peace, but he was the best grandfather that anyone could have ever asked for. I was always so proud to tell all my friends that my grandpa lived in Arizona, much les Africa and Australia! His stories made me the coolest kid in my classes! The hardest part to believe is that even after he has passed, I am still hearing these amazing stories of him that made me wish I had more friends to tell! I was fortunate enough to spend three months living with my grandpa and grandma a couple years back, and I consider those three months to be some of the most valuable months of my life. I'll never forget when I first arrived in Arizona it was the beginning of summer and I had to search for a job. We must have spent three weeks browsing the classifieds in hopes to find something. I can still remember my grandpa finding a pizza delivery job and insisting on me to call and put in an application. The only catch to this job was that I did not have a car, nor could I even drive at that time! My grandpa told me, "Well that's no problem, Jeremy. I'll drive you around and deliver the pizzas". The funniest thing is that he was as serious as could be and would have done it in a heartbeat! I could only imagine the facial expressions if we were to walk in with one application for two people. He was such a character and I will never forget those memories for as long as I live. I may not be the best writer or story steller of all time, but I know not even Shakespeare could truly portray how great of a man he was. He inspired so many people here on earth and I know that he's doing the same upstairs. Heaven is lucky to have him and we will all miss him so very much. We'll all see you soon grandpa. Love you.

My dad is the greatest dad in the world!  It didnt matter how far away we were from each other, he was always there for me. I could always count on him to say just the right thing to make me laugh when I was down.  Growing up with Dad was never ever dull.  He was the first one up every morning.... ready to take on the world.  Each day was a new adventure for him.  I learned to be just not "on time" for appointments or meetings but to be atleast 15 minutes early. Our  car was usually the first car in the parking lot. Dad told me at a fairly young age that the key to working was to be able to get along with people. If you can do that you can be successful in most jobs.We spent much of our time together playing and talking sports. He was such a wonderful teacher. We spent countless hours at the kitchen table mulling over better ways to play baseball and basketball. My favorite memory is playing catch out on the devil strip in the front yard.He was atleast 79 and still trying to play catch with his grandson, a college pitcher, Jeremy just a few years ago. My Dad was so funny...he had a way to make anyone put on a smile. He loved being around his grandchidren and one great grandchild. His love for my Mom was so strong and wonderful. They make the perfect couple.  I will always have such wonderful memories to recall but I must admit I wish I could have just one more day with My Dad  so we could play catch, or have a discussion about throwing a baseball on the downward plane, even watch an old sports movie or just get some vanilla ice cream cones. I know your heaven now probably playing ball....or talking to someone.......Someday we will all be together again but until then   I will just blame it on Mary.  I love you Dad

My very first trip to Arizona was at Easter 3 years ago when Patrick took me to meet his parents. Sam was quiet a character. He was always trying to get me to talk just so he could laugh at my southern accent. One thing that stands out in my mind was Sam's imaginary friend named Mary. Whenever he made a mistake he would say "Mary did it". When we would go out to a restaurant, Sam would always add one more to our group, he always saved a seat for Mary. After the meal, he would tell the waitress to give Mary the bill. I could sit for hours listening to him tell me stories about their life in Cleveland, Pittsburgh, Akron, Ghana, & Liberia. There were also great stories about his days playing baseball & football for Akron University. He led such and interesting life. I would get so engrossed in his stories and my response would be "really?!" and he would laugh and say "no". Then at times he would say something that I didn't believe and it would end up being the truth. You couldn't help but smile whenever you were with him. Patrick has always said his parents were the "storybook couple". They first met in Elementary school and have known each other their entire life. I believe they were married 61 years. Talk about "Happy Ever After"! Sam was so proud of his 3 children, 7 grandchildren & great-grandson. He spoke of them often. The one thing that I remember the most about Sam was after he would finish his story, he would always say....."and that's all I've got to say about that".  I feel honored to have known such a wonderful man & will always remember his wonderful sense of humor...and that's all I have to say about that!

To Sam's family-
I wish to express my condolences to your family. I am in California and was unable to attend the services but will always remember Sam's sense of humor and kindness.
Regards,
Bernadette Henderson

I miss grandpa Tillett so much and I hate that I couldn't be there today for the memorial. Even though I live across the states, growing up over the years I've always had fond memories of grandpa. He was so funny and always knew the right thing to say to make things better. He had so much strength and personality and I've always admired that he could talk to practically anyone and have a long conversation. Grandpa will truely be missed and I've been lucky enough to have had him in my life despite the distance because he had such a huge impact on anyone he ever met. I still remember the stories of when we were little of "Mary did it" and laugh because somehow I feel that grandpa egged us on! I love you grandpa and I know for a fact that you are striking up conversations in heaven with angels who are just shaking their heads. One day I will see you again!

I never met Mr. Tillett, but I work with Becky, his daughter.  Someone like Becky was raised with kindness, morals, and sincerity.  That must have come from the home she was raised in.  These are amazing people.

Dear Ruth Ann,  We have shared happy family memories through our children for  almost 30 years.  It has been so good to know that you and Sam were close to the grandchildren when I was far away in Ohio.  I know from all the family stories that Sam was a wonderful grandfather.   I remember him as a good friend, always smiling and enthusiastic about the boys' golf successes.  I know how much you will miss Sam.  My thoughts are with you at this sad time.  
Dear Becki, You were fortunate to have a wonderful father whose love for his family was clear to everyone who knew him.  I am so glad I was able to visit Buchtel High School with you last summer where we saw the year books with your parents'  pictures.  What a beautiful young couple they were.  And what a fine athlete your father was.  I was glad to see the pictures of thier homes in this guest book.  May your many happy memories help to console you in your loss.   With love, Margaret Brooks-Terry (Becki's mother-in-law)

Our family feels honored to have had the pleasure to know Sam.  He was a truly delightful man who loved his family and life.  Our wish is for the many years of happy memories to carry you through this sad time.

Spence and Mary Heffel

Sam had a unique sense of humor that I will always remember.  Lots of great memories of our family get togethers in Las Vegas in the middle of winter, times in Akron and Mesa. He always had a joke and a smile.  He will be missed and remembered.  

May God bless you and your family.

Jan Gregrow & Family

Junior golf was our life when the kids were growing up and I remember Sam and Ruth very much a part of it whether it's volunteering at JGAA or just watching the kids play. He had that smile on his face that showed us there's no care in the world like the photo. We miss you, Sam.    Freddie, Veronica and Boojie (Fred) Matthews

I am a former co-worker of Sam and Ruth Ann's wonderful daughter, Becki. During this time I frequently received updates regarding the family and know this has been a tough journey, but now he is in a better place. My condolences to the family. -Chris L.

Our  prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. it was a great experience talking and laughing with him at all the JGAA tournaments and other times as well.He was like all the kids grandpa.We will truly miss him very much.Becky if there is anything we can do to help your mom please let us know.Peace to your family. Charlie Jan Kenny Meagan and lil Wes Evans.

I will never forget and will always treasure the memories of sitting at the kitchen table with Sam, talking politics and sports. With a twinkle in his eye, he would bait you with a somewhat loaded question, then tear into your response like a bulldog -- but never without a large helping of grace and humor. I first observed these exchanges when I was young, watching Uncle Sam and my father, who was best man in Sam and Ruth Ann's wedding, go at it. One day, filled with the brashness of youth but with very little temporing wisdom, I joined in. 

After that first exchange, Sam started to draw me out. "What do you think about ...," he would ask,seemingly innocently. Before long, Sam and I would be lost to the world, engaged in a heated debate on some arcain political issue. I grew to love those discussions almost as much as he did. He loved to match wits, whether the topic was politics or sports. To me, a still wet-behind-the-ears teenager,it was an honor that he sought out my views on political subjects -- before he proceeded, without being condescending in the least, to explain to me the errors in my thinking. Over time I learned to give, as well as to take, in these debates with Sam. 

The last debate we had took place over Sam's kitchen table in Mesa, the last time we were together. The topic was the unending conflict in the Middle East.  As usual, Sam had strong feelings about the war and the politicians who were promoting it. On that occasion, for the most part I agreed with him. But for the sake of a good debate, I threw out the other side's position from time to time, and Sam didn't disappoint with his counter.

In one's life there are a small handful of individuals about whom one can honestly say, "That person had a profound influence on me and my life, and I am eternally grateful that I knew him." That sums up my feelings for my Uncle Sam. He was a very special, truly remarkable man. I will miss him.

Becky and Family,

I am so sorry for your loss.  It is so hard to lose a parent.  My thoughts are with you

I never had the opportunity to meet "Sam I Am", but I was able to hear all the wonderful stories & memories from my Mom & Patrick. I was able to see lots of pictures & from it all I know that Sam was a wonderful Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Brother, Husband & Friend. He will be missed by many! I pray that God gives this wonderful family strength & hope during these hard times. Sam is with the Lord right now & no longer has pain or hardship. He will forever be looking down on each & everyone one of us until the day we join him...and what a day that will be! Please keep the memories alive, as Sam will forever live in our heart.






October 21, 2010
 
My first attention getting episode of Sam was on the family farm in Virginia when he was about a year and a half old with a very severe asthmatic attack that rendered him unconscious.   I ran to get our father and he was taken to the local doctor who gave him an adrenalin shot and told never to return to Virginia.  As soon as we got in the mountains, he was cured by mountain air. My admiration for him for overcoming this problem to become a leader and outstanding athlete at Buchtel High and Akron U is lifelong.  
At an early age he exhibited his devotion to athletics. He memorized the batting averages and batting order of every player in both major leagues and would "annnounce" imaginary games inning by inning.  Later he became an outstanding coach, teacher and role model for Little Leaguers.  
Sam had a wonderful sense of humor and never knew a stranger. He and Ruth Ann were very gracious to us and our three boys when we visited them.  His was the plan for annual family get togethers in Akron to visit our sister Ann who had no family in Ohio.
Sam, my brother, we will miss you very much 
                       Bob and Jean Tillett ,  Louisville, Kentucky

I cannot tell you what a delight it was to know Sam and how much he meant to me growing up. All of the vacations that our families went on together are such fond memories. Ocean City, Washington D.C., Lakeside, OH. Sam's sense of humor always made things much more fun than they ever would have been without him. God bless all of you, we will all miss him but I know that he will be waiting to welcome all of us with that impish smile and twinkle in his eye when we meet him again.

Uncle Sam was such a fun-loving and playful person. He always took the time to play with us kids as we were growing up. I really enjoyed being around him. He will be missed. I pray that everyone will be comforted by the wonderful memories he left behind.

I attended Buchtel high school.  I am eight years older than Samuel.  I remember reading in the newspaper about his exploits.  He was an admirable person.  May he rest in peace.

Sincerely

Robert M Kraus
Akron Ohio

We are so sorry for your loss and our loss.  We are praying for God to give you the strength and courage to continue on. Uncle Sam was a wonderful Uncle.  I can especially remember the times we would have a cartwheel contest and playing 'his' game.  He was a wonderful person.  We loved him very much.  I am glad he now is at peace.  May God comfort you with the peace that passes all understanding. We love you and will continue to pray for you. I am sorry We won't attend the funeral.
Love  Mary Beth & Mike

I REMEMBER SITTING AT THE KITCHEN TABLE WITH MR. TILLETT WHEN I PLAYED LITTLE LEAGUE, WABL FOR HIM. HE WOULD HAVE FLASH CARDS FOR EVERY SITUATION ON WHERE EACH PLAYER SHOULD BE, DEPENDING ON THE CIRCUMSTANCE. I LOOK BACK AT THAT AS SUCH A FOND MEMORY. NOT THE 8:30 A.M. PRACTICES HE USED TO MAKE RAY RUN AT HARDESTY PARK. MY CONDOLENCES GO OUT TO ALL THE FAMILY AND TO MY OLD FRIEND PAT. GOD BLESS.

OBITUARY

Mr. Samuel Sam Raymond Tillett Jr.

January 29, 1928 – October 18, 2010

Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park & Funeral Care

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