Christine Elaine Tillman

Christine Elaine Tillman, 66, of Galien passed away Monday, Jan. 4, 2021, at Lakeland Medical Center, St. Joseph.

Christine was born June 15, 1954, in Benton Harbor, the daughter of Charles and Caroline (Zachary) Avery, both of whom precede her in passing. Also preceding her in passing are a sister, Pamela Champ; and a brother, Lawrence Avery.

Christine was a 1972 graduate of Hartford High School. She was the families “lynchpin”, knowing when everyone’s birthday and holiday was, and loved sending cards, never ceasing to keep in touch with all those she touched. She was a friend to anyone and loved talking with people, even those she did not know. In her spare time, she enjoyed taking trips to the lake to watch the waves and grab a bite to eat. But her most precious times were spent with her family that she loved most, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Christine married Arnold Tillman on May 10, 2003. He survives, along with four children: Chad (Deborah) Bedwell of Hartford, Sally (Kevin) Waldrop of Berrien Springs, Troy (April) Bedwell of Galien and Karen (Nick) Anders of South Haven. She is also survived by thirteen grandchildren: Brooklyn Smith, Martin Bedwell, Stephanie Boughner, Jason Hathcock, Katelynn Bedwell, Ray Bedwell, Thomas Bedwell, Hunter Bedwell, William Anders, Alex Anders, Kevin Waldrop Jr., Paige Waldrop and Blake Waldrop; seven great-grandchildren: Christine Elaine Smith, Theodore Thomas Smith, Savannah Swearengin, Sierra Swearengin, Blair McMeeken, Varrick Anders and Elias Anders; a great-great-grandson, Jaxxon Russell; two sisters: Sheila (Don) Tillman of Hartford and Marilyn Schrumpf of Galien; numerous nieces; and nephews.

The family will welcome friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8, at the Full Gospel Assembly Church, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 1 p.m. with Pastor Lonnie Truelove officiating. Following the service, she will be cremated and burial will follow at a later date. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave a memorial condolence for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.