Tillie LaBorde

Tillie LaBorde, born on August 31, 1935, in Corpus Christi, Texas, to Claude Milton Ewing and Lora Zell (Davis) Ewing, passed away at the age of 90 in Springfield, MO. Growing up in Corpus Christi, Tillie began her working life as a waitress after graduating from high school. She later married Jack LaBorde, Sr., and together they navigated the challenges of military life, moving to various locations as their family grew.

During Jack's deployment to Vietnam, Tillie returned to Corpus Christi with her children, to be near family. As a young wife and mom, Tillie cherished the close-knit group of friends she made at her apartment complex. Every afternoon, they would gather together and over coffee and cigarettes, share laughter, stories, and the simple joys of companionship. Though an introvert at heart, Tillie built deep and lasting friendships, staying in touch with her dear friends over the years despite time and distance.

Tillie later faced life as a single mom. She demonstrated remarkable determination by returning to school to learn the art of cake decorating. Her talent and hard work led to a rewarding career, spending over 21 years with HEB grocery stores as part of their bakery department. Tillie was also a woman of faith, having been a part of the Baptist tradition which guided her with warmth and conviction throughout her life.

In her later years, Tillie relocated first to Colorado and then to Missouri, always choosing to be near her loved ones. In both Greeley, Colorado, and Sedalia, Missouri, she was a beloved Walmart greeter, earning over 20 years of service with the company.

Her life serves as a testament to perseverance and the enduring power of love.

Tillie is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Mick and Joann LaBorde of Kirbyville; eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren plus one on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Jack LaBorde, Jr.; two infant children; and her sisters, Bonnie Buchanan and Claudia Smolinski.

Arrangements were in the care of Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory.