Tillman Paul Bear

Tillman Paul Bear of Thurman, OH, peacefully passed away at his home on August 8, 2024, at the age of 87 years, surrounded by his loving family. He suffered from cancer, and we are thankful his body has now been released to a place where there is no more pain or death.

Tillman Paul Bear was born on July 1, 1937, to Paul R. Bear and Lois A. (Brunk) Bear near Elida, OH. He was baptized into the Pike Mennonite Church in his teens. When the Sharon Mennonite Church began in 1966, Tillman and Elaine were charter members. They moved to southern OH near Gallipolis in January 2007, where they became members of the Valley View Mennonite Church.

Tillman is survived by the love of his life, Elaine Betty Smith, whom he married on November 27, 1958, at the Pike Mennonite Church. They enjoyed 65 years of married life together. Their home was blessed with 6 children, all of whom survive: Darwin (Marie) Bear of Patriot, OH; Gary Bear of Owen, WI; Nancy (Mark) Housser of Thurman, OH; Sharon (Jonathan) Kropf of Halsey, OR; Michael (Dorcas) Bear of Patriot, OH; and Gail (Michelle) Bear of Harrison, AR. Tillman is also survived by his siblings, Cretora (Bear) Hilty, Robert Bear, and Mark Bear; 36 grandchildren; 4 step grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; and 9 step great grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, William and James; brother-in-law, Robert Hilty; daughter-in-law, Charlotte (Baer) Bear; and granddaughter, Sadie Bear.

Tillman was a hog and grain farmer for most of his life and was deeply involved in natural health. While farming was his occupation, he had a heart and vision for the ongoing faithfulness of his family, for his home church, and for the church at large. He enjoyed the fellowship of the believers and often traveled to take in special meetings. He had a deep love for the truth, standing firm on Bible principles. He believed in Christian education and served as a school board member over the years.

Tillman had a deep interest in music and directed the Sharon Chorus for over 25 years. He often served as church chorister.

The family wishes to thank Heartland Hospice for their support at the end of his life. We also thank those who supported the family in prayers, food, and condolences in the past weeks.

The Funeral Service for Tillman will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 15, 2024 at Faith Baptist Church.  Burial will follow in Valley View Mennonite Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and from 6:00-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at Faith Baptist Church.