We first met Aunt Tillie in the 1990s at our home in New Jersey, when she would come to our picnics with Cretia, Star and some other family members.  Little did we know the blessings that were in store for us by coming to know Aunt Tillie.  Her warmth and understanding were priceless.  She understood everything perfectly, and would give advice that portrayed her wisdom.    

We kept in touch independently of the visits by becoming pen pals.  She was truly a pleasure to write to and share things with, and she would show such appreciation just at the sound of your voice or at the receipt of a letter.  Aunt Tillie valued and appreciated every single thing on this earth.

She taught us many things just by being Aunt Tillie....we always liked one of her favorite phrases, "All in God's time."  We used to laugh and chuckle at the human condition, where we make plans, but then God has His own plan.  She had a way of putting things in perspective.  By the end of the conversation, Aunt Tillie had a way of soothing your soul and having you become much better for it. 

May her laugh and sweet voice stay in the echo of our hearts forevermore.  Aunt Tillie, thank you for allowing me to call you friend.  You are forever missed.

With love,
Phyllis, Pete, Carolyn, Andy and Mike      

At age 8 I awoke on Christmas morning in Petersburg New Jersey.  Visiting for the holidays was my Aunt Tillie.  As we were opening presents I came upon a box that was kinda heavy.  The note on the box said Merry Christmas from Aunt Tillie. 
As I opened the box I noticed it was a transistor radio!  I put the 9 volt battery in and listened non stop all day to music.  I however was puzzled about how I could hear a band play a song at 11am and then that same band be heard at 4:00pm at the radio station playing the same song?  My Dad explained that it was a record and not a live band running from station to station!  Kinda silly but it was this little radio that launched my love of music and sports.  That love lead to having my own radio show in my sophmore year of high school, becoming a sports and newscaster for a CBS affiliate in Atlantic City, interviewing Governors, Senators Hall of Fame baseball players, hosting telethons and for years being the Voice that people heard when they called the Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood Florida.  Aunt Tillie sensed that a little boy could touch thousands as a man.  I thank God for placing her in my life journey.  Love forever Nephew Jimmy.