In a deeply tragic turn of events, Jeremy Tillman, a loving father of eleven, unexpectedly collapsed and lost his life while helping his son move into a college dorm. The devastating incident took place on August 19 and cast a deep shadow of grief over his family and loved ones.
Jeremy Tillman, 45, originally from Russellville, Arkansas, was inside a residence hall on the campus of Arkansas State University that fateful day. He selflessly gave his time to help his son Jace Tillman with the monumental task of moving his belongings into the dorms while Jace prepared for the upcoming fall semester. It was a day filled with anticipation and excitement as the family looked forward to this new chapter in Jace’s life.
“He walked through the door and was in obvious distress,” the 39-year-old told the newspaper. Maybe he was overexerting himself, I suppose.
The devoted father passed out while helping his son Jace Tillman carry his belongings to campus in preparation for the next fall semester. According to Today, he was discovered on the floor, barely breathing and foaming at the mouth.
Tillman was given CPR by emergency personnel and a defibrillator was used to restart his heart before he was taken to St. Bernards Medical Center, where he tragically lost unexpectedly.
Goodson said: “We went there with him and then the ride home without him was, I think, one of the worst things I’ve ever experienced.” Goodson and Tillman got engaged in late June in Peru, and she wore her engagement dress to the funeral.
In response to Tillman’s untimely death, an Arkansas State University official released the following statement: “Chancellor Todd Shields and Arkansas State University extend our deepest condolences to student Jace Tillman. The university community will continue to support Jace and keep his family in their prayers during this extremely difficult time.
The devastated fiancee described her late partner’s life before his sad passing, claiming he treated her six children as his own “without hesitation” and was “the epitome of what a man and father should be”.
All his children adore him because “he just took them all in and loved them as his own,” she claimed. Goodson told Today that Tillman was an “understanding parent” who constantly showed up to his children’s “important events” while working both full and part-time jobs at home.
“He always made time for backyard soccer games, tug of war, and movie nights. He taught our kids how to be intentional with their words and how a man should treat a lady,” she added. he wants before his own, often to his own detriment, because he is selfless.
He was recalled by his family for his passion for “shooting guns, working on cars, and most of all spending time with his family,” his obituary said. The grandfather of two was also a beloved family man.
In a touching tribute to her father, Tillman’s daughter posted this on Facebook: “Now I understand why you always told me I was strong, [you knew] that one day I would need the strength to bear your loss. I had no idea it would happen so fast I’ll always love you I’ll catch up with you someday so fly high with Cassie.
His daughter Jaymi Tillman also posted on Facebook: “God I miss you so much already,” while his son Jace shared a collage of family photos from their early years.
Our thoughts are with Tillman’s family and friends at this time.
As the Tillman family navigates the uncharted territory of life without their beloved Jeremy, their cherished memories and enduring love will no doubt sustain them on this difficult journey. The outpouring of support from their community and the indomitable spirit of their family bonds will serve as a source of strength as they honor the memory of a father, partner, and friend whose legacy will live on in their hearts forever.