James Wayne Tillery

James Wayne Tillery passed away Thursday, October 15, 2020. Graveside service and burial will be 2:00 pm, Saturday, October 24, 2020, at St John Lutheran Church Cemetery at 10801 FM 929 in Crawford/Coryell City. Pastor Tom Beers will be officiating. James was born July 19, 1952, in Baytown, Texas, to Edward Morris Tillery and Roilee E Varner. He graduated from Crawford High School in 1971. He joined the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. After his military service, James attended TSTC for building construction management, and went on to a career with homebuilder Jim Walter Homes. After his time as a Regional Manager, he transitioned to a career with the United States Postal Service. James retired with over 30 years of government service. In retirement he continued investing in real estate and remodeling homes. James enjoyed his life on a farm in Crawford, listening to music from the 1970’s, and the company of his family and loyal dogs. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward M. Tillery; mother, Roilee E. Johnston; stepmother, Owondolee J. Tillery; and brother, John F. Tillery. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Sammie Teresa Tillery; children, Brian D. Counts, John W. Tillery, Jeremy S. Tillery, Nathan S. Waddell, Tamara J. (TJ) Kreuzer, Evan J. Waddell, and Victoria A. Tillery. Also survived by grandchildren, David Counts, Andrea Counts, Madison Bryant, Chloe Waddell, Sarah Tillery, and Asher Waddell, as well as siblings Donna Jean Kinder, Denna Dunlap Smythe, Shirley Godby, Robert Tillery, and dear friends. Pallbearers are Brian Counts, John Tillery, Jeremy Tillery, Nathan Waddell, Evan Waddell, Ryan Kreuzer, David Counts, Buddy Davis, James Lambert, and Jeff Slaughter. Memorials may be made to Fuzzy Friends Animal Rescue. The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our "Tribute Wall" at www.WHBfamily.com.