Leroy Tillman, the best friend Pilam ever had, died in Gainesville at the North Florida Regional Medical Center on Saturday, September 14, 2002. While Leroy joined Pilam in 1954 as an employee, he quickly became a friend. In 1976 he became an honorary brother and in 1979 the Pearl was dedicated to him. Survivors include his wife, Ruth Tillman of Gainesville; daughters Lucille Harris and Gwendolyn Tillman, both of Gainesville, Esther Allen of Tampa and Lola Debose of California; sons Roy Lee Tillman, Bobby Tillman and Michael Tillman, all of Gainesville; sisters Fannie Mae Woodberry of Gainesville and Belindes Smith of New York; 12 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. 

Leroy's wife's address is 1008 SE 8th Terrace, Gainesville, Fl 32641.

Leroy was 69.

1979 Pearl Dedication (below)