Tilman O’Conner Mahone, 91, of Bedford, passed away Thursday, May 22, 2014. He was born on April 29, 1923 in Esmont, Virginia; he was a son of the late Walter Wingfield Mahone and Thelma Tillman Mahone Irvan; In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by three sisters, Doris, Naomi and Patricia; and one brother, Walter, Jr.
Tilman is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Alice R. Mahone; his beloved daughter Mary Beth Quarles and her husband, Randy of Bedford; his grandson and pride and joy, Matthew R. Quarles also of Bedford; also numerous nieces, nephews and many friends.
Tilman was a member of Bedford Christian Church in Bedford after transferring his membership from Euclid Christian Church of Lynchburg many years ago. He was a family man being a wonderful Husband, Father, Father-in-law and Grandfather who will be missed dearly.Tilman took pride in serving in the United States Army. He served with the 5th Armored Division in the European Theatre of Operations as a Rifleman and Light Truck Driver. He Loaded, aimed and fired the M-1 Rifle to destroy enemy personal and assisted in capturing and holding enemy positions. Took part in four major battles and was wounded once. He served in England, France, Belgium, Holland and Germany being rewarded the Good Conduct Medal, Purple Heart, American Theater Service Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Service Ribbon, and the World War II Victory Medal. Tilman was a lifetime member of the American Legion and member for 20 plus years with the Elks and VFW. He retired from Murray and Bowling Chevrolet with 43 years in their parts department. He received numerous awards for his service from General Motors throughout his years of employment. Tilman was also a well-known Rosarian, known for growing many varieties and colors of Roses in his gardens. He grew and showed his roses at many shows where he received numerous ribbons and awards. He was a member of the American Rose Society for 41 years. Also a member of the Roanoke Rose Society and numerous other societies throughout central Virginia. He loved fishing especially trout, gardening, wood working, and was a great handy-man and a fixer of all things. He enjoyed helping his loving daughter Mary Beth and her students at Bedford Elementary School in their yearly Field Day Event for many years.
Memorial contributions may be made in Tilman’s honor to Bedford Christian Church, 1928 Moneta Road, Bedford, VA 24523 and the American Legion Post 54, 231 W. Depot Street, Bedford, VA 24523.
A Funeral Service and celebration of Tilman’s life will be conducted at 11 AM, Wednesday, May 28, 2014 at Tharp Funeral Chapel with Rev William H. Moore officiating. Interment will follow in Virginia Memorial Park with military rites provide by American Legion Post 16. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 27, 2014 at Tharp Funeral Home in Bedford from 6:00 until 8:00 PM. Arrangements by Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford, (540) 586-3443.