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Charlene Tilford Obituary
She is survived by her husband, Lewis Tilford; her sons, Todd and wife Tammy, Keith and wife Mendy, and Eric and wife Rena; and her grandchildren, Danielle, Cheyenne, Scarlet, Ivor, and Josephine.
Charlene was born August 20, 1937, in Hastings, Oklahoma. She attended Oklahoma Baptist University, where she studied Drama and
eventually won the best supporting actress award in 1957 and the best actress award in 1958. She later graduated from Oklahoma State University with a degree in speech and drama in 1959.
Charlene had several careers that she pursued with great passion. They included teaching speech and drama at Durant High School, developing one of the nation's first televised educational programs broadcast live in schools, handling distribution for Centron Films, and finally, taking on the job of Assistant Director of Executive Education for the University of Kansas School of Business.
However, maybe her greatest gift of all was that of being a wife, mother and grandmother of the very highest order. Her tremendous inner and outer beauty and her fierce love and warm, shining spirit will live on forever with her close family and loved ones.
Memorial donations may be made to Feed My People 171 Kingston Dr. St Louis, MO 63125 or feed-my-people.org.
The family will receive friends at a memorial reception from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 20 in the Phillips Board Room at Kansas University's Adam's Alumni Center.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Charlene Tilford
Linda Standard
May 21, 2017
I also worked with Charlene at Centron. She had a way of keeping us all laughing and enjoying the day.
Chuck Warner
May 20, 2017
I worked with Charlene at Centron for a number of years. Her personality always filled a room with energy,excitement, and passion. A wonderful and memorable person. Many fond memories of Charlene.
Philip Bradley
May 19, 2017
My deepest sympathies. Many fond memories of talking with Charlene and singing with her in the Church choir and other events. She always made me smile and often laugh as well. She will live on in my recollections as the epitome of a wonderful person, gracious host and a fine southern lady!
Mike George
May 18, 2017
Our sincere condolences to Lewis and family. Charlene was a lovely lady who helped inspire the rest of the church choir members at FPC in Lawrence. We offer our prayers and hope that you are comforted knowing how many friends you still have in Lawrence.
Tizby Hunt-Ward
May 18, 2017
I knew Charlene when we both worked at Centron Films. She was a wonderful person to work with and fun to have as a friend. My sincere condolences to Lewis and the entire family.
May 18, 2017
Very sorry to learn of this. My thoughts are with the Tilford family as you heal.
Robin Ragland Hill
May 18, 2017
My deepest condolences, Lewis. Charlene brightened so many lives. May God bless you and comfort you and your family.
Cris Chaffin
May 18, 2017
I'm very sorry to hear of Charlene's passing. Lewis and family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Douglas Harwood
May 17, 2017
I am so sorry to hear of Mrs. Tilfords passing. I remember coming to the Tilfords home for voice lessons and Charlene always coming to performances by the ACapella choir and chorale. She was always so encouraging, supportive, and positive. What a lovely and gracious woman. Praying for you and your boys and their families Mr. Tilford. Love and prayers to you all!
Jon Leines
May 17, 2017
Very sorry to hear this news -- I'll be praying for the Tilford family.
Jon Leines
May 17, 2017
Very sorry to hear this news -- I'll be praying for the Tilford family!
Laura McCorkill
May 17, 2017
Such fond memories of Charlene at voice recitals dressed up and smiling like everyone of us was her own kid, and of choir tours and the fun she brought along. My condolences to the Tilford family on such a loss.
Susie Rutledge Amos
May 17, 2017
I am so sorry to hear this. Sending your family light and peace during this difficult time.
Kari Paludan-Sorey
May 17, 2017
Sending love and condolences to the entire Tilford family. As I write this, I can see, vividly, Charlene's beautiful smile and hear her laugh. How lucky we all were to know her. Much love, Kari Paludan, LHS Class of 1987
Thomas Pollard
May 17, 2017
Thoughts and prayers to your whole family
James Montgomery
May 17, 2017
Your family is in our thoughts as you go through this troubled time. The world was a brighter place with Charlene in it and we will always remember how welcome she made us feel when we were in your home.
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