Raymond Tillotson

Raymond Tillotson, a cherished member of his community and devoted family man, passed away peacefully at home November 24, 2024, at the age of 97. Born on September 26, 1927, in Farnam, Nebraska, Raymond lived a life dedicated to agriculture and service, a farmer at heart, Raymond spent his entire career devoted to the land, raising purebred Herefords until he retired in 1993 when he began working as a Federal Crop Insurance agent. His deep-rooted connection to farming was complemented by his education at Farnam Public Schools, where he learned the values of hard work and perseverance that would characterize his life.

Additionally, Raymond proudly served in the Army, an experience that instilled in him a sense of duty and commitment to his community. He carried these values into his civilian life, holding several board positions in various organizations, including his church, the Rural Electric Association, the local School Board, and the Co-op.

Outside of his professional life, Raymond had a zest for hobbies that showcased his love for family and leisure. He found joy in bowling, golfing, and watching baseball, but nothing brought him more happiness than attending his grandchildren's sports activities and other events. His family was paramount to him, and he delighted in spending quality time with them, including memorable trips to Branson, Missouri.

Raymond is survived by his daughter, Brenda (Randy) Edson of Farnam, NE, along with two sons, Greg (Kaye) Tillotson of Omaha, NE, and Gene (Tammy) Tillotson of Kearney, NE; nine grandchildren Sydney (Sam) Tillotson Sehi, Colin Tillotson, James Tillotson, Ryan Tillotson all of Omaha, Crystal (Blane) Widick of Holdrege; Corey (Kim) Edson of Fort Pierre, SD, Corrine (Rick) Muenchau of Springfield, OH; Wesley (Jacey) Edson of Johnson Lake, and Brittany (Tregg) Reiss of Kearney; 14 great grandchildren, Brennan, Hunter, Christophe, and Darianna Taylor, Ryleigh Widick, Gunner, Ryker and Beckett Edson, Dalton and Kraeton Muenchau, Finnegan and Oliver Edson, and Teagan and Brexlynn Reiss.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mildred Corinne Tillotson, daughter, Coleen, and son, Gary, whose loss he felt deeply, as well as a host of family members, including his father, Leroy Tillotson; mother, Hazel Tillotson; brother, baby John Tillotson; brother, Leroy Tillotson; sisters, Leola Haney and Mary Thompson; father-in-law, Roland Lehman; mother-in-law, Stella Lehman.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Friday, November 29, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Blase-Strauser Memorial Chapel in Gothenburg, NE with the family present. 

Funeral service will be held in Raymond’s honor on November 30, 2024, at 10:30 AM at the Farnam Methodist Church in Farnam, NE with Pastor Elmo Hermann officiating.

Burial will follow in the Farnam Cemetery.

Raymond Tillotson lived a life filled with love, commitment, and dedication, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him. His warm spirit and kindness will be deeply missed.

Memorials may be given to the Methodist church or the Farnam Fire and Rescue.