Remembering Gary Tillery

Age 66, Tulare, Calif.
Passed away on April 27, 2020

Gary fought Covid-19 for 27 days before passing away.. He was a loving father, son, brother, uncle and grandpa, Gary was one of a kind. His kind, compassionate spirit touched many and his smile lit up a room.

Gary was born to Billy and Oleta Tillery in Tulare, CA on August 5th, 1953. He was one of five children. Gary loved the Lord, his family, friends (and strangers) and would do anything for anyone. He never met a person he didn't like and treated everyone with the utmost respect and love. He was kind, compassionate, humble, thoughtful, generous, calm, affectionate, handsome, and vastly loving. Gary was the epitome of a good man. Gary loved jeeping, camping, barbecuing, building and socializing with his loved ones. His grandkids were the light of his life. He was an incredible Papa with a special bond with all of his grandkids.

Gary resided in Tulare, CA, where he started his career as a talented carpenter (the best in the business) and spent the past 17 years as the Plans & Permits Coordinator for Self Help Enterprises. Gary loved his colleagues and made a huge impact in the construction world.

The family would like to thank the amazing medical team at Kaweah Delta hospital ICU and Critical Care Unit. They worked tirelessly and so compassionately to make sure Gary had the absolute best care and they truly fought for his life. We are forever grateful for their genuine, fierce, heartfelt battle for Gary. We would also like to thank his employer, Self Help Enterprises, for their unconditional love and support for Gary throughout the years.

Gary was preceded in death by his brother, James Tillery, his son, Justin Tillery, his wife, Gay Tillery and his father, Billy Tillery. Gary is survived by his mother, Oleta Tillery, brother, Steve Tillery (Terry), sister Cindy DeLima (Joe), sister Karen Jones (David), daughters, Jessica Tillery and Kaitlyn Tillery, son, Matthew Tillery, his bonus children Michael Costa, Ashley Costa, Chelsie Costa and Kim Costa, 16 grandchildren, one great granddaughter, and many nieces and nephews.

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