Mr. John Martin Tillson, 75, of Richland, MS and formerly of Raleigh passed away Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Plainview Assisted Living surrounded by family and friends. He was born in Raleigh, MS on October 19, 1950, to parents John B. and Marion Martin Tillson.

Visitation will be held Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Raleigh, located at 219 Sylvarena Ave, Raleigh, MS 39153, with graveside service to follow at Sylvarena Cemetery located at 52 SCR 52, Raleigh, MS 39153. Bro Danny Dickerson will officiate the service. Services are entrusted to Colonial Chapel of Raleigh.

John attended and graduated from Raleigh High School. He then attended and graduated from Mississippi State University earning his Bachelor of Science Degree. John retired in 2013 after a 26-year career at the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, serving as Director of the Consumer Protection Division. He proudly served under Commissioners Jim Buck Ross, Lester Spell, and Cindy Hyde-Smith. John was a member of First Baptist Church of Raleigh. John was a huge Mississippi State fan and could be found most of the time with his remote in his hand hunting his beloved bulldogs.

John is preceded in death by his father John B. Tillson. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving mother, Marion Martin Tillson; an aunt, Elizabeth Martin Mosley; cousins, Mike Martin, Marcus Martin, and Allen W. Glisson Jr. Also left to cherish his memory and whom he considered as family for over 2 years is the staff of Plainview Assisted Living and Director Tracey Cross.

Pallbearers will be Mike Shelden, Marcus Martin, Fred Huff Crumpton, Charlie Crumpton, Mike Martin, and Bodie Crumpton. Honorary pallbearers include George Stuart, Dr. Matthew Martin, and Micah Martin.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Plainview Assisted Living for their devoted care, and Maygan Hammond and Kelly Hartzog with Gentiva Hospice for all your care and concern.

In lieu of flowers the family kindly request memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or Hope Lodge.