Ruth Trice Tilman

Ruth Trice Tilman, 88, passed away Sunday, July 9, 2006, in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her husband, James A. Tilman III; her parents, Joseph and Lena Trice, and her brothers, Stuart, John, and Lynwood. She is survived by her son, James A. Tilman IV; her daughter, Lyn Tilman Pontius; her son-in-law, Patrick J. Pontius; three devoted grandsons, Patrick, Brian and James Pontius; and nieces and nephews. She grew up in Hadensville, Va. and was a member of Forest Grove Christian Church. After graduating from Lynchburg College in 1939, she moved across the James River to Powhatan to begin a lifelong career in education. She met and began a courtship with Jimmy Tilman; however, marriage plans were put on hold for three and a half years while Jimmy served his country during World War II in the Pacific Theater. Upon his return from the Solomon Islands, they were married on January 27, 1945. After teaching for nine years in the Powhatan schools, she served as the librarian at Midlothian High School for 25 years, and her students fondly referred to her as Mrs. T. She also taught the preschool Sunday class at May Memorial Baptist Church for 33 years. In her retirement, she dedicated her time to her family, her church, and her community. She thoroughly enjoyed and was an integral part of many organizations including the Eastern Star of Powhatan, the Powhatan Garden Club (charter member), the Richmond Council of Garden Clubs (life member), the Chesterfield Retired Teachers Association, the Virginia Education Association (honorary life member), the Powhatan Historical Society, and the Women's Club of Powhatan, where she was named Woman of the Year in 1988. One of the great pleasures of her life was immersing herself in Tilman's Antiques, Auctions, and Appraisals, where she earned the affectionate moniker of "The President". Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the May Memorial Baptist Church, Powhatan. Interment Powhatan Community Cemetery. The family wil receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Bennett and Barden Funeral Home, 3215 Anderson Highway, Powhatan. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to May Memorial Baptist Church or Powhatan Volunteer Rescue Squad.