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Nan Tilley Obituary
Feb 6, 1944 - Aug 7, 2025
Nan Pittman Rufty Tilley, passed away on August 7, 2025 after a courageous battle with dementia that progressed for 15 years. Nan was born on February 6,1944, in Charlotte, N.C., the only child of Francis and Hollis Rufty, who preceded her in death. As a young girl, she recognized her love and talent for dance. She was a cheerleader at Garinger High School and graduated from UNC Women's College with a Master's of Dance. She taught dance, physical education, tennis and archery at Salem College for 37 years. She was admired and loved by students and fellow faculty. She was a beautiful and caring instructor who enjoyed travelling abroad with students and introducing them to some of the world's best dancers. In addition to her students, whom she adored, her dogs were her constant companions and often accompanied her to class. She married Sandy Lee Tilley in 1986 and together they enjoyed 39 years of devotion, joy, respect, and most especially love.
A memorial service is planned on her birthday, Feb. 6, 2026. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Forsyth Humane Society or to the charity of the donor's choice. Salem Funeral and Cremations is assisting the Tilley family.
Salem Funerals & Cremations
120 S. Main Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
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Memories and Condolences
for Nan Tilley
Sponsored by Salem Funerals & Cremations - Downtown.
6 Entries
Suzanne Williams
August 12, 2025
Nan was such a kindhearted and lovely colleague and friend during our years together at Salem. May her memory always be a blessing.
Anne Prescott Ramm
August 12, 2025
Nan was my dear and constant friend since I moved here in 1971.
Barbara Lister-Sink
August 11, 2025
Nan was a most beloved and respected colleague at Salem College. A lovely dancer and a dedicated and inspiring teacher, Nan was one of the kindest people I ever worked with at Salem. I am so very sorry for this loss and send my sincere condolences to Sandy and her family members.
Nancy Saunders Whitt
August 11, 2025
I was a student of nan's at salem college and was a member of dansalems. she became more of a friend as I graduated . she took some of her favorite seniors out to a steak dinner before we graduated. we shared a love of dogs. we sent each other christmas cards every year. mine were picture cards and always had my dogs in the picture. she would write me back a newsy note and comment on how much she enjoyed my dogs pictures. I looked forward to hearing from her every year. when I went through a year of breast cancer she sent me cards of encouragement and even a gift of a basket she had made at there weaving class. I still have it and treasure it. every 5 years when I attended my class reunion at salem I would go by to see her and have a great visit. in the last 15 years as I was told she was suffering with dementia I did not visit her and I deeply regret it. some of my fondest memories of being a student at salem involve her. I can still see her big smile in the dance studio along with Birmingham, her old English sheep dog. she was a beautiful soul and lived a lovely life full of joy and kindness and compassion. I am so happy she found her dear husband that she adored. may she rest in peace and dance her way through heaven surrounded by her beloved dogs!!!!!!!!!!! well done, nan. I will miss knowing that you are here among us, especially as I attend my 50th class reunion this coming April. I am sending my love and prayers to you, sandy. Nancy Saunders Whitt. class of 1976
Janet Escamilla
August 10, 2025
Nan was a honor to take care of and know while at Priddy Manor. Thoughts and Prayers go out to Sandy at this time.Heaven gained and Angel.
Angela Palazzola
August 10, 2025
My beautiful Lady, you are going to be missed so much! It was such a honor to take care of you and to get to know you and your lovely husband Sandy! You are our beautiful Angel, fly high my little mama!! Sending lots of love and prayers to you Sandy and your family! Love Angela Thomas and Abby
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