John Billy Tillson, 97, of Raleigh, Mississippi, died Saturday, March 27, 2021 at Jasper County Nursing Home in Bay Springs, Mississippi. He was born Saturday, September 15, 1923 in Sylvarena, Mississippi.

Graveside Services will be held Friday, April 2, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Sylvarena Cemetery with burial to follow. Bro. Mickey Ferguson will officiate. Colonial Chapel Funeral Home of Bay Springs is in charge of arrangements. (601) 764-2181

John was a native of Sylvarena, MS and served in World War II in the 5 ^th infantry division under General George Patton. John received several commendation from the military including a Purple Heart. Following his service to his country, he returned home and married Marion Martin. John Bill and Marion were married for 74 years and resided in Raleigh where John was a rural mail carrier for the US Postal Service. He was also a part-time farmer and attended Mississippi State University.

He was preceded in death by his parents, L.N.(Pollie) and Alma Ezell Tillson; brothers, L.N. Tilson Jr., and Joseph Lauren Tillson; and a sister, Annie Jo Glisson.

He is survived by his wife, Marion Martin Tillson, son, John Martin Tillson, and a host of nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Pallbearers will be Michael Martin, John James, Hal McMullan, Mike Shelden, John Raymond Tullos and Bodie Crumpton.

Honorary pallbearers will be Curtis Gable, Joe Tally, Ray Tullos, David James, Kenneth James, and Lex James.

Directions to Sylvarena Cemetery:

When you get to the Sylvarena Corporation Limits at the intersection of Smith County Road 52 (just to the west of James Grocery) turn north onto SCR 52 and proceed two tenths of a mile to Old School Road. Turn Right (East) on Old School Road and proceed approximately 300 feet. The cemetery will be directly ahead (East).

Online guestbook may be signed at www.colonialchapelbaysprings.com