Charles Joseph Tillson Jr.

Charles Joseph Tillson Jr, 91, a lifelong resident of Bay Head, NJ passed away at home on January 21st, 2025 surrounded by his family. Charles, also known as Charlie or Chuck, was loved by all who knew him.
He was born on October 31st 1933 to Charles J. Tillson Sr. and Anna B. Baumbauch. Tillson. Early in his life his parents purchased a home in Bay Head where he resided with his family for the rest of his life. Charles graduated from Bay Head Elementary School class of 1948 where he was proud to be one of a class of two. He graduated from Point Pleasant. Beach High in 1952. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1952-1956 as a boilerman aboard the USS Antietam as it toured the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Upon completing his duty he took a job with Jersey Central Power and Light where he worked as a lineman for 35 years. Charles also served in the New Jersey Air National Guard Reserves for 16 years. Charles joined the Bay Head Fire Company No. 1 in 1950 where he served multiple terms as Chief and President. He remained an active firefighter there well into his eighties.
He loved his town deeply and when he was once asked "Where in the world would you like to go, Charlie?" His answer was simply "Bay Head."
On June 21st 1957 Charles married the love of his life Barbara Louise Daley. They raised three children together and lived very happily. Charlie could often be seen about town riding his bicycle sharing his wry wit, funny stories, and vegetables from his home garden. Charlie was loved by his community, his many friends, and his large extended family who will all miss him greatly.
Charles was predeceased by life long best friend Jack Keller and sister Georgina Baumbach McKenna.
He is survived by his wife of sixty six years Barbara Louise Tillson, daughter Carol Beth Tillson, son Charles Frederick "Chip" Tillson and spouse Joyce Applegate Tillson, daughter Ellen Tillson Parker and spouse Michael Joseph Parker, grandchildren Emily Carol Parker, Benjamin Joseph Parker, Matthew J. Ross and Cameron J. Ross, and many nieces and nephews.
The family will hold a private memorial service. Donations in his honor can be made to The Bay Head Fire Company No. 1 or the charity of your choice.
Services are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ.