Deacon Joseph Melvin Tilmon

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

~ II Timothy 4:7

Joseph Melvin Tilmon, the beloved son of the late Annie Jones Newsome, was born on April 1st, 1936, in Macon, North Carolina. He was lovingly raised in the Margarettsville area by his late grandmother, Alice “Big Mama” Jones, who played a significant role in his life.

Melvin received his education through the public schools of Northampton County, where he built the foundation for a life that would be devoted to his faith and family.

From a young age, Melvin recognized the importance of salvation and gave his life to Christ. He became a member of Zion Hill Baptist Church, where he was ordained as a Deacon. Later, he moved his membership to Bethlehem Baptist Church in Seaboard, North Carolina, where he remained an active and faithful member until his health began to decline.

On March 3rd, 1956, Melvin was united in Holy Matrimony to Dora Pugh Tilmon. Together, they had two beautiful children and created a lifetime of cherished memories until her passing.

Melvin was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and a steadfast Christian. He was an inspiration to all who knew him, always providing hope and guidance to those around him.

In order to care for his family, Melvin worked in a variety of fields, including farming, plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry. He also worked at JP Stevens, where he remained until his retirement. Outside of his work, Melvin had a deep love for gardening and enjoyed doing odd jobs. He took great pride in helping to raise and support his grandchildren, who were a significant part of his life.

In the early morning hours of Friday, February 21st, 2025, Melvin peacefully answered God’s call. Surrounded by the grace of God’s mercy, he was called home to rest.

Melvin’s spirit continues to live on in the hearts of his loved ones. He is survived by his devoted wife, Marie Tilmon of Emporia, Virginia; his loving daughters, Mildred Parker (John) of Seaboard, North Carolina, Melvetta Tilmon-Brooks (Jerry) of Pleasant Hill, North Carolina, Verne Goode (AJ) of Emporia, Virginia, and Vanessa Goode of Jarratt, Virginia. He is also remembered by sixteen grandchildren: Melissa, Latoya, Tanya, Pauletta, Whitney, Christopher, Antonio, Quiana, Jerry III, Jeremiah, Anjelica, Larry, Lekeshia, Latavia, Miniya, and Ulanda; seventeen great-grandchildren; and ten great-great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his sisters: Carrie Hines of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, Frances Newsome, Annie Burnette of Seaboard, North Carolina, and Virginia Newsome of Fort Myers, Florida; and brothers: John Newsome (Phyllis) of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, and Robert Newsome (Gwen) of Saudi Arabia.

Melvin was preceded in death by his mother, his grandmother, his son Julian Priest, his daughter Mary Allen, his brother Lindsey Newsome, and his dear friend Leon Goode. May they all rest in peace and be united in eternal love.

Melvin’s earthly journey is complete, and he is now at rest, embraced by the loving arms of God. His legacy of love, faith, and devotion will forever remain in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Deacon Tilmon's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Deacon Joseph Melvin Tilmon.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

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