Bobby James Tillman

Bobby James Tillman, age 88, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 12, 2026. Bobby is finally physically well and walking with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Born on July 4, 1937, Bobby was a beloved son of the late Rev. John M. and Susie Tillman. Bobby spent his childhood in Trussville, AL, where he resided the rest of his life. Following his graduation from Hewitt Trussville High School, Bobby enlisted in the United States Navy and served during the Vietnam War Era. Upon returning from his service in the Navy, Bobby began his work career with McWane Pipe, where he retired as a supervisor.

Possibly due to the fact that he was born on a national holiday, Bobby, known as “Cowboy” to some of who knew him well, loved celebrating all holidays. He was so happy being with his large extended family as they gathered for each celebration. Bobby received great joy in decorating his house for each holiday and then showing it off to his family, especially his young nieces and nephews.

Bobby delighted in the small things in life. He loved sitting on his back porch and watching the birds at his feeders, sometimes having twenty feeders at a time. Bobby also loved vacationing in the Smoky Mts. with his wife, Barbara, and his sisters and their husbands.

Bobby accepted Christ as his Savoir as a teenager, and remained active at First Baptist Church Trussville until his health no longer permitted him to attend. He loved fellowshipping with the men in his Sunday School class and the men looked forward to him telling them a new joke each week.

Bobby was preceded in death by his infant son, Baby Chris; his wife, Barbara; his brother, Johnny Tillman; and brothers-in law, Ralph Taylor & Don Timlowski; and nephew, Robin Taylor.

He is survived by his daughters, Tasha Tillman; Tanya (Gay) Martin; grandchildren, Christopher (Amanda) Martin; Kaitlyn Martin; great-grandchildren, Reid Martin, Crissi Cambron and Casen Cambron; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A graveside service to celebrate Bobby’s life will be held at 10 am on Saturday, May 16th, at Jefferson Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home at ABCH, P.O. Box 361767, B’ham, AL 35236-176 or the charity of your choice.