Lawrence William Tilley

Lawrence William Tilley, age 74, left his earthly home on Saturday, April 25, 2026, surrounded by 19 loved ones, and entered his eternal home with Jesus. After courageously battling dementia for six and a half years, he is now fully restored and at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior.

Lawrence was born on April 4, 1952, in Grand Junction, Colorado, to Ruth (Stoute) and William “Bill” Tilley. At the age of three, his family moved to Rockvale, Colorado, and later to Florence, Colorado when he was nine. He graduated from Florence High School in 1970.

Lawrence began working at New Method Laundry & Dry Cleaners at the age of 14 during the summers and transitioned to full-time work at 18. Through dedication and hard work, he eventually purchased the business and became its owner. He was known not only as a hardworking businessman but also as a kind and caring employer who genuinely loved his employees. He never missed an opportunity to share about his faith and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In 1970, Lawrence met the love of his life, Nancy (Berger) Tilley. They were married on March 27, 1971, beginning a beautiful life together rooted in love, faith, and service. Together, they opened their home and hearts as foster parents, caring for over 50 children in a span of 10 years—a legacy of compassion that impacted countless lives.

Lawrence’s faith was evident in every season of his life. Even as dementia progressed, his love for people and for Jesus never faded. He was known for warmly shaking hands with everyone he met and asking if they were a firm believer in Jesus. Many will remember him wearing his hat that read, “Jesus died to save U. Acts 4:12,” a message he carried with boldness and joy.

Affectionately known as “Punk,” a nickname given to him by his mother, Lawrence was lovingly called “Uncle Punk” by his nieces and nephews, and simply “Punk” by friends, family, and coworkers—a name that reflected both his personality and the deep love others had for him.

Lawrence also loved the outdoors. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting, and made many memories with his family in the places he loved most—Razor Park, Eleven Mile, and Opher Creek.

He treasured simple, meaningful moments—especially his weekly lunches at Chelsea’s with his wife Nancy and grandson Dante, as well as special time spent there with his daughter Alicia. In the last few months of his life, his family shared special moments singing “Skidamarink A Dink A Dink, I Love You” with him—a song that was later discovered to have been sung to him by his mother when he was a young boy, bringing his life beautifully full circle.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth and William Tilley; his father-in-law, Charley Berger; his mother-in-law, Winnie Berger; his sister, Nita (Tilley) Leonard; his brother, Benjamin Tilley; his brother-in-law, Doc Hornsby; his sister-in-law, Kathy Huckaby; his brother-in-law, Jim Harrod; his niece, Shannon Tilley; his nephew, Troy Tilley; and his grandson, Xavier Short.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Nancy Tilley; his brother, Frank Tilley (Betty); his children: Crystal (Dale) Sundeen, Alicia (Omar) Short, Lori (James) Murphy, Paul (Emily) Tilley, and Matthew (Stephanie) Tilley; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews who will continue to carry on his legacy of faith and love.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Pulse Church on June 6, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Lawrence’s life was a testimony of unwavering faith, servant-hearted love, and a deep commitment to sharing the hope of Jesus. His impact will be felt for generations to come.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7

A special thank you to Sangre De Cristo Hospice for their wonderful care of Lawrence during his final months. We are especially grateful to Nurse Jackie, Nurse Mercedes, and a very special thank you to Nurse Britney for being there in his final days.

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