Harley Tilley's Obituary
Harley passed away April 21, 2026. He was born in Arkansas and lived there until age 14. At that time, he attended and graduated from the School of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri.
Harley was drafted by the New York Yankees out of high school and played with the organization until enlisting in the Air Force during the Korean War. He continued to play baseball in the service in addition to his assignment in cryptography.
Following the service, he graduated from Memphis State University and worked for the Burroughs Corporation before starting his own business, “Harley Tilley Associates, Inc.”
Though Harley was affectionately known as “Grumpy” by his grandchildren, he was very sweet-natured. He never met a stranger and loved learning the details of people’s lives.
Harley was involved in community activities and was a member of Memphis Rotary Club, Sales Executive Club, and Colonial and Wyndyke Country Clubs. His hobbies included golf, reading, watching sports, and traveling with his wife. Most recently, they were members of Christ Covenant Reformed Church.
Harley is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jo Anne, children Nancy Garner (Jeff), Karen (deceased), Gaylon, Kevin (Christie), and five grandchildren, along with several great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be sent to College of the Ozarks, P.O. Box 17, Point Lookout, MO 65726.
Services will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home in Memphis, Tennessee, on Saturday, May 2nd. Visitation will be at 10:00 a.m., followed by a graveside service.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119 (901) 767-8930.
“Where Memphis comes to remember, since 1924.”
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