Jessie C. Tilghman's Obituary
Jessie C. Tilghman, 88, of Leesville, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, surrounded with his loving family. He was born on October 11, 1937, in Grenada, Mississippi, to Jessie Andrew Tilghman and Ona Bea Tilghman.
Jessie was raised on a farm as the son of a preacher, where he learned the value of hard work, humility, and an unwavering faith in God. On November 26, 1959, he married the love of his life, Myra Ashabranner of Manila, Arkansas. Together they built a beautiful life and shared 66 years of love, devotion, and cherished memories.
Shortly after their marriage, Jessie was drafted into the United States Army, where he served as a nurse for 20 years, including two tours in Vietnam. Following his military retirement, he continued his lifelong commitment to caring for others through a 20-year civil service career as an Emergency Medical Technician at Bayne Jones Army Community Hospital.
Jessie leaves behind his beloved wife, Myra Tilghman; his son, Jessie Allen Tilghman and wife, Esther, of Leesville, Louisiana; his daughters, Susan Flores of San Antonio, Texas, Tammy Parker and husband, Jeremy, of Leesville, Louisiana, and Rhonda Legendre and husband, Jeffery, of Leesville, Louisiana. He was a proud grandfather to Allen Michael Tilghman, Samantha Flores, Savannah Flores, Noah Parker, Sydney Parker, Patrick Parker, Jessica Legendre, and Joseph Legendre, and a treasured great-grandfather to Kaia Flores.
Family was the center of Jessie's life, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with those he loved. He was a faithful and active member of Leesville Methodist Church and lived each day guided by his deep Christian faith. Jessie was also an active amateur (ham) radio operator who generously volunteered his time assisting Vernon Parish with emergency communications whenever needed.
Jessie's legacy is one of faith, gratitude, service, and unconditional love. He taught those around him the importance of trusting God, appreciating life's blessings, and putting family first. To his family and close friends, he was especially known for the daily morning text messages he faithfully sent reminding them that he loved them. Those heartfelt messages brought comfort, encouragement, and smiles, and they will be deeply missed. Though his messages have ended, the love they carried will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
Jessie lived a life of honor, compassion, and quiet strength. His example will continue to inspire generations to come. While his family grieves his passing, they find comfort in knowing he is at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior.
Until we meet again, you will be forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in Leesville with Pastor Corbin Thorley officiating. Burial will follow in the Holly Grove Cemetery in Anacoco.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
What’s your fondest memory of Jessie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jessie?
Share a story where Jessie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jessie you’ll never forget.
How did Jessie make you smile?
