Rufus W. Tillis, 85, SFC Retires USA, passed away at his home after a year-long illness.
He is survived by his wife Alice Joan; son Michael of Gatesville, Texas; grandchildren Ronald and Vanessa Tillis, Jennifer (Jody) Thornton of Vero Lake Estates, Shelby, Garrett and Devin Tillis all of Copperas Cove, Texas; great-grandchildren Gracie, Wyatt and Lainey; sisters Louise Belfonte of Vero Beach, Patricia Hancock of Port St. Lucie and daughter-in-law, Rebecca Tillis, and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by son, Ronald and daughter, Cheryl.
Tillis was born in Vero Beach to Beatrice Owens and Rufus Tillis, Sr. He attended Vero Beach High School and at 18, went to Miami and joined the Army.
His military career took him to Germany, Austria, Greece, and many bases in the U.S. including Alaska.
He also saw active duty in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. He retired after 22 years of honorable service.
Later in civilian life, he spent many years as the security guard at the Beach Bank/Northern Trust.
A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016 at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.lowtherfuneralhome.com.