Veronica Lynette Tilghman

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die...” John 11:25-26 (NIV) Veronica Lynnette Tilghman was born in Princess Anne, Maryland on August 27, 1967 to her late parents, William Bishop and Sarah Tilghman. After a valiant battle with lung cancer, Veronica transitioned from her earthly life to her eternal home promised in the Holy Scriptures, on Sunday, July 31, 2022 at the Tidal Health Peninsula Regional Hospital (Salisbury, MD). Veronica’s educational foundation was established in the Somerset County School System. She always had an incredibly strong work ethic and took considerable pride in being a fierce protector and provider for her family. Professionally, she was known for providing extraordinary nursing services and comfort care to those in need, and was employed by Manokin Manor, a senior community that provides memory care to the elderly. Veronica, affectionately known to many as Ronnie, was extremely loved by her family, friends, and co-workers. She embodied the cliché of “never meeting a stranger,” as she was friendly and approachable to anyone and everyone – no one was a stranger, just a friend whom she had not spoken to yet! She would often open her beloved home to relatives and friends seeking a homecooked meal, temporary lodging, or a few words of encouragement. Veronica loved life and lived it to the fullest – she lived fearlessly, held nothing back, and poured her whole heart, emotionally, spiritually, and physically, into those that she loved. Her annual birthday cookouts are an example – each year, she invited and hosted countless numbers of relatives and friends that would travel from near and far to celebrate the beauty of life, and she was always the life of the party! Veronica was also known for her creativity – her hairstyles, jewelry/accessories, clothing, and home décor choices were always bold, timeless, stylish, and trend-setting. Yet, Veronica’s greatest joy was spending quality time with her family – she never wanted to miss a birthday, graduation, shopping excursion, field trip, family reunion, or any other special day/occasion! The bond that she shared with each family member was special and unique, especially the connection with her granddaughter, Ashani, whom she raised and nurtured since infancy. Veronica now crosses her earthly “finish line” as an amazing, loving, and devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, neighbor, cousin, friend, and confidant. Veronica lived, loved, and touched an array of individuals – especially those in need of care and support. She placed strong value on the concept of family – and never hesitated to sacrifice her time or resources in support of her children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces/nephews, and close friends. Veronica was always willing to lend a helping hand – her life was not in vain and is characterized by extraordinary courage and grace. She will be remembered fondly as a woman of resilience, strength, and dignity! Veronica leaves the notion of spiritual reconciliation and legacy of affection to many relatives and lifelong friends, including her loving children: Shanica Spence and Rodney Spence, Jr.; adored grandchildren, Ashani Spence, Ra’lil Spence, Ra’Liyanna Spence, and Kay’Lei Spence; devoted siblings, George (Ernestine) Tilghman, Geneva “Brenda” Tilghman, Wayne Tilghman, Kevin (Victoria) Handy, Denise Tilghman, Phiel Bishop, and Andrea (James) Purnell; warmhearted nieces, Shonda (Harry) Tilghman, Tonya Dix, Liticia Dix, Teniah Handy, Kiara Jackson, Alesia Handy, Ashyra Pittman, Jashae Jones, Tenirah Parker, and Kaelynn Kollock; caring nephews, Brandon Tilghman, Wilson Dix, Jr., Jerald Kollock, Jr., Tyriek Tilghman, Tashy Parker, Jakhari Melvin, Andre Maddox, Jr., Braylen Jones, and Allure Harris; compassionate aunts, Shirley Tilghman and Emily Fuller; special friend, Willie Brown; loyal friends, Ken Nixon, Aretha Peters, Cassandra Price, Sharon Taylor, and Anissa Wallace; and many more relatives, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her loving nephew, Dennell Tilghman. Veronica fought a good fight, she finished the race, and she kept the faith!

Veronica Lynette Tilghman

August 27, 1967 - July 31, 2022