Mr. Phillip R. “Poppa” Tilley, age 81, of Aragon, GA, passed away Friday evening, February 27, 2026.
Mr. Tilley was born in Cartersville on February 26, 1945, a son of the late Sylvia Vincent “S.V.” Tilley and Gladys Mabel Tilley.
He lived most of his life in Aragon and was a member of Morning View Baptist Church. Affectionately known as “Poppa,” he served his country in the United States Army Reserves from 1965 until 1971.
A dedicated entrepreneur, Phil owned and operated Dairy Queen and Rockmart Rent-To-Own, now known as Tilley’s Home Furnishing. He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, collecting and giving out two-dollar bills, pocketknives, keeping rolls of pennies on hand for babies, and delighting others with the sound of his aoogah horns.
Phil never met a stranger and treasured every visit and conversation. Above all, he will be remembered for his deep love for his family and his church.
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In addition to his parents, Phil was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Gail Phagan Tilley, brother, Joe Tilley, sister, Jane Tilley, and sister-in-law, Ann Tilley.
Mr. Tilley is survived by his son, Derrick Tilley (Cassie); grandchildren, Tana Hulsey (Patrick), Lauren Tilley, and Maddie Tilley; great-grandchildren, Dawson Hulsey and Evie Hulsey; brother, Mack Tilley; sister-in-law, Betty Jane Tilley. Several nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews also survive.
Memorial services for Mr. Tilley will be held on Tuesday evening, March 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the chapel of Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home with Rev. Jeff Hulsey officiating. Derrick Tilley will deliver the eulogy.
Poppa’s family will receive friends at Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home on Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. until the service hour.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested that memorial donations be made to Foundation Christian School, 160 Springdale Road, Rockmart, GA 30153 in memory of Mr. Tilley.
Alvis Miller & Son Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family of Phillip R. “Poppa” Tilley.
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