Tilson – Charles James Anderson Tilson, age 86, of Macclenny, Florida passed away May 14, 2014 at Ed Fraser Memorial Hospital with family by his side. He was born in Portsmouth, Ohio on February 13, 1928 to the late Arthur Glen Tilson and Valerie Hawes Tilson. Charles served his country proudly in the United States Army as a Corporal after World War II. He was stationed in Italy and throughout Europe for many years where he made many friends. After serving in the military, he met the love of his life, Georgia, while attending business school. Charles was a very intelligent man that obtained his Master's Degree in education and spoke 5 languages. He had a passion for education, teaching, and helping others. He taught fifth and sixth grade for many years, coached the basketball team, and later became the Principal. He retired after 30 dedicated years from the West Virginia Teacher's Association. After retirement in 1986, Charles and his family relocated to Middleburg, FL where he became a member of St. Luke's Catholic Church. Charles has been a resident of Macclenny for the past four years where he resided in W. Frank Wells Nursing Home where he had many loving friends and attended St. Mary's Catholic Church. Charles enjoyed taking care of animals. He cared for chickens, geese, ducks, and his cats. He also enjoyed reading, calling his friends in Italy, and reading the Italian newspapers. Most of all, he loved his family and enjoyed spending time when them. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 45 years, Georgia Tilson; and his grandsons, Thomas "Tommy" Charles Ross, II and Adam James Ross.

Charles is survived by his loving daughters, Valerie (Dennis) Markos of Lake Butler and Sharon Dunbar of South Charleston, WV; his grandchildren, Sean and Phillip Ross, Chris and Scott Dunbar, and Brad Maney; and his 7 great grandchildren.

Mass will be held on Monday, May 19, 2014 at 2:00 pm at V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services with Deacon Ken Cochran as celebrant. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Sunday, May 18, 2014 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm at the funeral home. The arrangements are under the care and direction of V. TODD FERREIRA FUNERAL SERVICES, 250 North Lowder Street, Macclenny, FL 32063 (904)259-5700.