IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Arthur

Arthur Tilley Profile Photo

Tilley

June 21, 1946 – October 19, 2020

Obituary

Arthur William Tilley, 74, beloved Husband, Father, Son, Brother, and Friend, went on to Glory on Monday October 19th in Vero Beach, family by his side.

Arthur was born in Suffern, New York June 21, 1946. His family moved often with his Father, an Air Force Pilot; they lived across the United States & Europe. As a boy he lived in Argenton-sur-Creuse, France. There he was influenced spiritually by what he saw and experienced in the villages, cathedrals and surrounding landscapes, heavily affected by the wars. This time was captivating, and inspired him creatively throughout his life.

Arthur's teenage years were spent in New Jersey; he graduated from Palmyra High School, 1965. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography, 1970, from Philadelphia College of Art ( Now, The University of the Arts). During college he worked as photography assistant for a Philadelphia photographer who became his mentor and introduced him to the Christian faith.

He developed a successful career as a professional Photographer. In his early career he worked as an advertising photographer out of Philadelphia, New York, and Atlanta. He worked locally and travelled extensively for clients. He ran several large studios, including one he renovated: an Historic Ice House in Atlanta, GA, featured in the Time Life book: The Studio. Another highlight was a Tilley photo featured for a Time Magazine cover.

On a photo assignment in 1983 he met Leslie McFarland and they married in 1984. Together they had two children: Christa and Matthew. In 1990 the young family moved from Atlanta to the small coastal town of Vero Beach, Florida. There, Arthur and Leslie changed course with their photography business, to produce stock photography for global agencies.

He and his family traveled all over the world for work and pleasure, collecting photographs, experiences, and friends. Arthur spent many a day searching for the right light and the right shot. He led his family on many adventures that often included piling dogs, cats, kayaks, tents and bikes into one vehicle. He especially loved his recent cross country/Canada trip with Leslie, dog Woody and teardrop trailer.

His greatest joys in life were family, photography, history, music, sailing/ kayaking and travel (and occasional rock collecting).

The Community Church of Vero Beach was an extension of his family. He attended faithfully, supporting the church and participating in bible studies, classes, events, and small groups including Walk to Emmaus. He served on the Youth Board and the Mission Board.

Arthur was passionate about supporting nonprofits working for the Environment, Human Rights, Social Justice, Food Security, and Mental Health. One favorite he supported locally, Haiti Partners, works to partner with Haitians for education.

Arthur- know how much YOU are loved. We are blessed because of you. Your big heart, adventurous spirit and wisdom inspired us spiritually, creatively and intellectually. Thank you for living your faith openly. "Courage is fear that has said its prayers."

Arthur is survived by his wife Leslie, daughter Christa, son Matthew and three sisters, JoAnn Tilley, Barbara Tilley, and Vivian Tilley, along with many loving in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and faithful dog Woody.

The family has chosen to protect the health and well being of family and friends and will not have a public service at this time. We look forward to celebrating Arthur's life with you in the near future. Condolences can be shared at https://www. coxgiffordseawinds.com

If desired Gifts can be made in Arthur's memory to:

️The Community Church of Vero Beach

️Glioblastoma Brain Cancer research: University of FL: Elizabeth Dziegielewski Glioblastoma Research Fund (Fund ID: 023821) https://www.uff.ufl.edu/ giving-opportunities/023821- elizabeth-dziegielewski- glioblastoma-research-fund/

Donate online or checks can be made to:  University of Florida Foundation or UF Foundation (memo line: "In memory of Arthur William Tilley").

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Arthur Tilley, please visit our flower store.

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