Frederick William Tilley

Frederick William Tilley of Seaforth passed peacefully from this life, early Sunday morning, July 13, 2025, in his 97th year at Seaforth Manor Long Term Care Home. 

 

He was the treasured father of Helen Southgate and Brian Oldfield of Seaforth and David and Joanne Tilley of London. Fred was the dearly loved grandfather of Katherine and Rick Meier of Clinton, Angela and Neil Douglas of Russeldale, Andrew Southgate of Kitchener, Matthew Southgate of Woodstock; Shannon Tilley of Stratford, Prince Edward Island, and Derek Tilley of Seaforth. 
He was the adoring great-grandfather of seven: Aiden, Liam, Tenley, Jaden, Hailey; Charlotte, Benjamin. 

 

Fred was predeceased by his cherished wife of over 70 years, Betty (Rowcliffe), daughter Barbara Ann, son-in-law Bill Southgate, sisters Ila Jory and Winnifred Crocker, brothers-in-law and sister-in-law Donald Jory, Jack Rowcliffe, James Rowcliffe (Anna), and nephews Daniel Jory and Mark Crocker. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Harry Crocker and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

 

Fred was born in Stephen Township, Huron County to Alfred and Edna (Witzel) Tilley on Oct. 4, 1928. His teen years were spent as a hired farm-hand as he helped support his family. He met the love of his life, Betty, at a dance in Exeter in 1950 and they were married in 1952. 

 

As a young man, he became a licensed auto mechanic, eventually working at Canadian Tire, Exeter. Soon after that, he was hired as a clerk in the store. In 1967, after honing his skills in the retail world, he became a proud Canadian Tire dealer in the Seaforth store with Betty at his side. In 1981, they sold that business, and soon took on another venture as the owners of the Blyth Mini Mart until their retirement in 1993. 

 

Unassuming, gentle-natured, and hard-working, he enjoyed spending time with his family and was always available to lend a hand. He supported the community through his involvement with the Seaforth Hospital Board for several years and was an active member of Northside United Church for many years. 

 

His farming roots during his youth led to a love of the outdoors. Fred and Betty were avid lawn bowlers and made many friends and acquaintances across Southwestern Ontario throughout the years. They loved dancing, playing cards, travelling and dining out with their circle of friends. 

 

After retirement, Fred enjoyed his daily coffee routine uptown and playing pool with “the guys”. The home that Fred and Betty built in Harpurhey was a gathering place of love and laughter for decades for family, friends and neighbours.

 

Fred’s affection for his family was apparent to his very last day. And he was deeply loved.

 

Cremation has taken place. Visitation took place at Haskett Funeral Home, Seaforth on Wednesday, July 16, followed by the funeral service on Thursday, July 17. Interment will be at Maitlandbank Cemetery. 

 

In lieu of flowers, if you wish, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice or Cystic Fibrosis Canada, Easy Ride Transportation - One Care Home and Community Support Services, Clinton, or Northside United Church, Seaforth.

 

Online condolences may be forwarded through haskettfh.com. Arrangements entrusted to Haskett Funeral Home, Seaforth.