James R. Tilghman

On Monday, March 10, 2014, God called Randolph and said, "My good and faithful servant, come home. Well done." JAMES RANDOLPH TILGHMAN, the son of the late James and Susie Tilghman, was born November 5, 1915 in Baltimore, MD. He was the second eldest of four children — sisters Beatrice and Phyllis, and a younger brother, William, all of whom are now deceased. James, lovingly known as Randolph, was educated in Baltimore City schools. His father died when he was a very young boy. To the surprise of his family, Randolph announced that he was "Now the man of the family", and from that point on, he assumed many adult responsibilities and carried them out successfully. After the death of his father, Randolph and his family moved to Wilson Park. Randolph held several jobs. He had a paper route and later worked as a delivery boy for a drugstore. First, he made deliveries by bicycle; later the job "became glamorous" and deliveries were made on a three-wheel motorcycle. Randolph learned to respect money and started to budget so that he could not only take care of his needs, but also help many of his family members. He managed money so well he was able to buy a car while still a teenager. Later he became a shipping clerk at HAAS Clothing Factory, a job he had until he went in the Army. Later he married Dorothy Rusk, and became "Pop" to sons, Harold Sr., Hubert, Donald and daughter Charlotte, all of whom are deceased. After serving in the Army, he went to work at the U. S. Postal Service. A devoted son, Randolph sacrificed his lunch break to take his mother to the doctor. Family members saw how dependable he was and asked him to look after them and their affairs. And guess what? He did When Randolph retired from the post office, he planned to travel with Dorothy, his wife of 51 years. They enjoyed traveling, card parties, dancing and shared many other interests. Unfortunately, Dorothy became stricken with Alzheimer's and required a lengthy period of care. He was a devoted husband and took care of her until her death with the support of their grandson Harold Rusk, also known as "Butch", who resided with them in their family home. Randolph was a devoted member of Douglas Memorial Community Church for many years. He served on the Usher Board B, worked at the credit union, delivered Meals on Wheels, was an avid bowler and pinochle player, and music lover. His community service included serving as Block Captain of Rosemont Neighborhood Improvement Association member, Past Master of King David Lodge #18 (raised, November 1959; Worshipful Master 1969-70), and Member of Hiram Consistory #2, and Grand Inspector General (33° Degree), Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Prince Hall Affiliation. Randolph has been a wonderful son, brother, uncle, husband, grandfather, nephew and friend. He has always shown unconditional love to family and friends. In addition, he was a source of inspiration and offered advice to many. To cherish his loving memory, he leaves to mourn: close niece Rosetta Jackson; nephew, Robert Hill and wife Audrey Hill; special grandson, Harold Rusk "Butch"; granddaughters, Michelle, Dorothy, Lisa, Christine, Sheila, Donna, Saundra, Pamela, Nancy, Traci and Terri; and a host of other family members and friends.

Tributes

James R. Tilghman

November 5, 1915 - March 10, 2014