A North Carolina state senate resolution honoring the life and memory of former state Sen. Jerry Tillman passed last week.
Tillman spent nine terms in office representing Randolph County before stepping down in 2020. He died Feb. 4 at age 82 in Greensboro.
In part, Senate Resolution 753 states: “The Senate wishes to express its highest appreciation of Jerry Wayne Tillman, former State Senator, as a citizen and public servant and extend its sympathy to his family for the loss of its distinguished member.”
The resolution’s sponsors included David Craven, who has filled Tillman’s seat. Senior president pro tem Phil Berger of Rockingham County and Durham Democrat Mike Woodard joined Craven.
The motion to adopt passed 46-0.
Tillman, a Republican, was chairman of the Senate Finance Committee in addition to his other committee roles. He was the Senate majority whip.
“Jerry was an incredible advocate for Randolph County,” said Craven, whose 29th district also includes Anson, Montgomery, Richmond and Union counties. “He was a dedicated educator, coach and statesman.”
Tillman had been active in the Archdale/Trinity Lions Club. He was also a member of the Archdale Friends Meeting.
At the time of Tillman’s death, Berger, the Senate leader, said: “Jerry was truly larger than life. He was never afraid to share his thoughts on a particular bill and would often lighten the mood by regaling us with tales about music, racing, and baseball.”
