Frankie Mae "Poodle" Tillman

Frankie Mae “Poodle” Thomas Tillman, age 96, of Baxley passed away Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at her residence under the care of Regency Southern Care Hospice.

Mrs. Tillman was born June 30, 1928 in Appling County to the late William Frank Thomas and the late Ruby Pearl Davis Thomas. She was a member of Ten Mile Creek Baptist Church and was a member of the Eastern Star. 

To many, she may have been the “Crazy Old Lady” in South Georgia, but to us, she was so much more-our rock, our laughter, and a constant source of joy. Poodle was small in stature but larger than life. She had a feisty spirit that could outshine anyone in the room, and she was never afraid to show it. She lived fully, loved deeply, and taught us all to find joy in every moment, no matter how unpredictable or wild it may be. As much as we selfishly wanted her to live forever, we know she’s where she needs to be now-in heaven, reunited with Pawpaw.

Mrs. Tillman was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Tillman; sister, Gladys Carter; brothers, Bill Thomas, James Thomas, Jerry Thomas and Wallace Thomas.

Survivors include her sons, Nathan (Cindy) Tillman, Reginald (Kathy) Tillman and David Tillman all of Baxley; sister, Nell Carter of Surrency; brothers, Rudolph (Jeannine) Thomas and Randall (Linda) Thomas both of Baxley; sisters-in-law, Eldora Thomas, Alene Thomas and Shirley Thomas; Six grandchildren, three great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild and several nieces and nephews also survive.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. at Ten Mile Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Tommy Daniels and Rev. Michael Sapp officiating. A visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

Interment will follow in Ten Mile Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

Active pallbearers will be Wally Thomas, Bart Carter, Jerry Thomas, Benji Higgins, Rodney Thomas and Chad Hutchinson.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Swain Funeral Home.