Evans Funeral Home of Jefferson announces the death of Mrs. Sherry Jo Tiller (Goss), age 81, of Gillsville, Georgia, entered her rest on Monday, Jan. 20, 2025.
Sherry was born in Elberton, the daughter of the late Wilbur Goss and Josie Belle Goss of Elberton. In addition to her father and mother, she was preceded in death by four brothers, Hoke Goss, Jimmy Goss, Norris Goss and Johnny Goss. A sister, Carolyn Goss, also preceded her in death.
Mrs. Tiller dedicated her career to helping others, serving as a skilled and highly respected registered nurse working in multiple nursing disciplines. She received her BSN in nursing from Georgia State University and later her master’s (MSN) in nursing administration from Emory University.
Mrs. Tiller retired as an assistant director of nursing for Emory Healthcare (previously Crawford Long Hospital) in Atlanta. Known for her determination and professionalism, she was known and loved by her patients, colleagues and employees for being fair and demanding excellence in care. She was a driving force and key to establishing the first renal unit for advanced kidney and urological care at Crawford Long Hospital.
Mrs. Tiller’s colleagues admired her work ethic and dedication to the patients in her care, and later to the leadership and care of employees in her department as an administrator.
Outside of work, Sherry lived a life full of friends, family and fun. She loved reading, gardening and spending time with her multitude of friends.
She was a proud member of Holly Springs Methodist Church, where she served at various times as a lay leader, children’s Sunday school teacher, choir member and board chair. She also enjoyed gardening at home with her husband of almost 63 years, Robert (Bob) Tiller, and watching the hummingbirds and various bird species at the backyard bird feeders.
Sherry and her adoring husband built a lasting legacy through their family and friends, but their devotion to each other was a shining example to all. Sherry also enjoyed nothing more than hosting family for birthday parties, holiday gatherings and other chances to simply enjoy her large family.
She was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews. She had a special skill for turning her home into a warm, safe and welcoming environment for friends and family alike.
She could often be seen at her grandchildren’s school events, ball games, recitals, golf tournaments and pageants. She was her children and grandchildren’s biggest encourager and cheerleader. To her beloved grandchildren, and now great grandchildren, she was known simply as Mushi. Mushi’s greatest joy was her kids, grandchildren and precious family time.
In addition to her husband Bob, she is survived by two sons, Dr. Sid Tiller (Beth) of Warrensburg, Missouri, and Scott Tiller (Kelley) of Suwanee, Georgia; one daughter, Tiffany Tiller Haynes (Mickey) of Sugar Hill, Georgia; and 10 grandchildren: Bo Tiller (Samantha), Blaine Tiller (Bailey), Michael Haynes (Maddie), Joshua Tiller, Brady Tiller (Laney), Holly Cain (Harrison), Jessica Tiller, Caroline Davidson (Jeremy), Brooke Haynes and McKenzie Haynes. The apple of her eyes late in life were the birth of her five great-grandchildren: Caleb, Rosalie, Hollyn, Ruth and Halley.
Visitation will take place at Evans Funeral Home in Jefferson from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24. Sherry’s celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. Jan. 25 at Holly Springs Methodist Church in Pendergrass. The family will receive visitors at the church from 10-10:50 a.m. prior to the service.
Sherry loved flowers, so flowers are welcome. In lieu of flowers, financial donations can be sent to Charles Stanley In Touch Ministries.
Sherry loved the Lord with all her heart. She will be missed, but we know that she has received her inheritance and is with Jesus. That comforts us all in the days ahead.
Online condolences at evansfuneralhomeinc.com.