It is with deep sorrow that the family of David Russell Tilley, 53, announce his passing on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, at his home in South Burlington.
David was a Vermonter. Born and raised in South Burlington, he lived much of his life in the area. He was a multi-talented, creative spirit — a passionate musician, songwriter and actor. David was well known and loved in the Burlington creative community. His performances were transformative, and his creative energy was generated by pure love of whichever art form he was engaged in.
Few souls were more sociable than David, and he was quick to find common cause with all those who knew him. His unique charm, warm smile and engaging presence will be missed by those of us who had the privilege to share his path.
He leaves behind many dear friends from near and far, including his cherished friend from childhood, Anastasia, and his dear supportive friend, Marsha. In addition to his many friends, David leaves behind a large family that includes his mother, Frances Tilley; his brothers and sisters, Barbara Neff, Patricia Downey, Bill Tilley, Steven Tilley and Brian Tilley; and aunts, uncles, many cousins, nieces and nephews. David was predeceased by his father, Russell Tilley, in 2003.
A private graveside blessing will take place at Resurrection Park in South Burlington on September 29, 2021, at 2 p.m. An outside memorial gathering for friends and family will take place on Sunday, October 3, at 3 p.m. at David’s childhood home, 700 Hinesburg Rd., South Burlington, Vt. Due to the high rate of COVID-19 in Chittenden County, please wear a mask if you are not fully vaccinated.
This article appears in Sep 22-28, 2021.
Love you David. I miss your face but your beautiful spirit is so alive. Rest.
In memory of one of the most intuitive and brilliant musicians I ever encountered. In honor of your generosity of spirit and your valuable humor. You will be missed so much, I feel you and can hear you as I sit here, please be there, nearby, always. Your brother, Bill
David will always be, for me, sunshine on a cloudy day. We spent a lot of time in my mustang singing songs from Pippin. He helped me plan and sang at my wedding. I moved in ’84 and we lost touch. Over the years I tried to reconnect and wasn’t able to. David, you changed me for the better and I love you with my whole heart. Light up that Corner in the Sky!
David……I will always remember our first meeting- kismet! You remain a talented man and now a much freer spirit- fly with those Angels my friend
Sean Moran
Each time I would see and talk with David it was as if we did every day! He had a spark that you could not avoid and his smile and humor about life itself was special.
Dennis McSorley- just a friend.
Unit….no words can describe the emptiness and heartbreak I feel with your passing. But to respectfully quote a songwriter that you admired and adored (Nancy Griffith 1953-2021 RIP), “Once in a Very Blue Moon”, there is a soul that touches your life and leaves indelible memories forever to be cherished. As you travel “Across the Great Divide”, there is no doubt in my mind and heart that you will be singing loudly for us all and “Waltzing With Angels”. with deep love, your sister, unit
Each time I’d see David it was like we could pick up where we left off! His humor and gaze at life was so charming and real. I’ll miss him and that’s all anyone would want when gone…. Dennis
David was a lovely, sensitive soul and I feel so fortunate to have known him. We shared a love of several singers, women who inspired us through good and hard times though, unlike David, I wasn’t blessed with his musical talent. I fondly remember the times we spent together talking music, listening to records. He messaged me after Nanci Griffith died and we shared in the loss. I see David at peace, singing and strumming with the angels. I will miss him dearly.
David, we already miss you. You will not be forgotten, my friend.