Thomas Earle Tillman

Mr. Thomas Earle Tillman, age 65, of Pittsboro, NC, transitioned to eternal rest on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at his residence. 

The Obituary

Thomas Earle Tillman passed away peacefully in Pittsboro, North Carolina on August 28, 2024. He was 65.

Thomas was born September 28,1958 in Sampson County, North Carolina. He was the second son of Peggie Spearman Bryant and James “Pete” Bryant. After Pete’s death, Peggie married Sherman Tillman who adopted Thomas and his brother Cornell. As part of a military family, Thomas spent his formative years in North Carolina, Hawaii, and Maryland.

Thomas attended the University of Maryland but left to pursue a career in communications. He began working for satellite companies and then transitioned to television. He joined CBS News in 1990 as an associate producer for CBS Newspath, later moving to politics and the Washington Bureau where he was part of the press corps that covered presidents and politics. Increasing levels of responsibility included stints as coordinating producer for the special events unit, acting senior broadcast producer for the CBS Evening News, and Deputy Washington Bureau Chief. He retired from CBS News after being diagnosed with a rare neuroendocrine tumor and moved back to North Carolina in 2017.

Thomas leaves to celebrate his memory his wife of 28 years, Gillian; a beloved son, Thomas; an adored daughter, Olivia; his mother, Peggie and bonus father, James Womack, of Fayetteville, NC; a brother, Kevin Tillman and his wife, Angie, of New Orleans, LA, a nephew, Spencer Tillman, of New Orleans, LA; one aunt, Dorothy Spearman, of Fayetteville, NC; a favorite cousin, Alexandra, of Fayetteville, NC; and a host of family and friends that will miss him dearly. He was predeceased by his biological father James “Pete” Bryant, his adoptive father Sherman Tillman, and his brother, Cornell Tillman.

Thomas was one of the kindest people to ever grace the planet. He loved his family and was generous beyond measure. His passions included cooking, gaming, tinkering, laughing, and spending time with those he loved. The world is a lesser place without him, but those who knew him will be forever enriched by his love.

The family appreciates your support during their time of bereavement. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to an animal shelter in your community, sharing your time with the charity of your choice, or performing a random act of kindness in his memory. Thomas would be honored by your doing all three.

Because Thomas was calm, cool and always low-key, the family will honor his spirit with a small graveside service. To honor those that loved him, the family will hold a celebration of life service in September. Details for the service will be forthcoming.

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Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home - Pittsboro, NC