Wayne Melvin Tilghman

WAYNE’S JOURNEY Wayne Melvin Tilghman was born in Princess Anne, Maryland, on May 2, 1958, to his late parents, Sarah E. Tilghman and Elwood Johnson. After a valiant battle with colon cancer, Wayne transitioned peacefully on Friday, March 28, 2025. Wayne was raised in Annapolis, Maryland, by his Uncle Melvin “Pop” and Viola Tilghman. He attended the Anne Arundel Public School system, and upon graduation, he enlisted in the Army National Guard Reserves. Once he completed his venture, he began working in the food industry and retired in 2021. Throughout his life, Wayne always came home to visit family and friends for birthdays, holidays, or just because. He enjoyed attending family trips and reunions where he would spend time catching up, dancing, and laughing. Wayne loved all sports, but he was a Baltimore Ravens and Orioles fan. You would find Wayne quietly eating his favorite snacks while watching his games. He found great pleasure and joy when listening to gospel music. He had a few favorite greetings that we all loved to hear such as, “Hey chief” and “Main man.” He would also say, “What you say there, chief,” and “Somebody is going to tell me something.” Wayne loved and touched everyone he encountered, especially the children. Before Wayne would return home to Annapolis, he made sure to make his rounds around town to catch whomever he could, especially visiting Squeaky’s and Aunt Shirley Tilghman, whom he loved dearly. During his illness, he returned to his birthplace, Princess Anne, and was cared for by his sisters, Brenda and Denise, brother Kevin, nieces, Kiara, Ashyra, Shonda, and Shanica and nephew Harry “Spike.” During that time, his Annapolis family would visit and call as much as possible. He loved these moments he spent with Pastor Reggie, Rufus, Carolyn, Cathy, Alvin, and Mitchell. Wayne leaves to cherish his memories: devoted siblings, George (Ernestine) Tilghman, Geneva “Brenda” Tilghman, Kevin (Victoria) Handy and Denise Tilghman as well as a host of warmhearted nieces, caring nephews, many cousins, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Veronica Tilghman, uncle, Melvin “Pop” Tilghman, aunt, Viola Tilghman and nephew, Dennell Tilghman. Submitted With Love ~ The Family

Wayne Melvin Tilghman

May 2, 1958 - March 28, 2025