Theolene Anna Millen

In Loving Memory of Theolene Anna Millen
Theolene Anna Millen, 94, affectionately known as Tillie (or Sister) went to be home with Jesus on November 12, 2023, surrounded by the cherished memories of a life well-lived. She passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with dementia.
Born on July 20, 1929 in Birmingham, AL to the Ussery family, Tillie entered this world with a spirit as vibrant as the flowers she adored. From her earliest days, Tillie was a force of nature, blending a playful sense of humor with compassion and love. She had childhood memories with her late parents riding the train and going to the World Fair (with her beaded purse).
Tillie is survived by her loving children, Marian (Dan), Lori (Pete), Tina, Tim, and Mark (Dilcia), as well as dozens of grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ernie Millen, as well as two grandchildren, Molly and Sergio.
Tillie’s unique and endearing qualities made her a beacon of light in the lives of those who knew her. Silly and faithful, she had a knack for finding joy in the simplest of moments. Her dedication to sending birthday cards and meticulously updating her cherished photo albums reflected her commitment to the bonds of family and the importance of capturing life’s precious memories.
Tillie was not only a family anchor but also an active participant in her community. She worked at Christopher Wren Association in Williamsburg, was an active member at the various churches she visited, participated in the Red Hat Society and loved going to water aerobics at the YMCA. Tillie became an unexpected internet sensation, enchanting audiences worldwide with her accordion melodies and the lively dance moves of her beloved Chinese Crested dog partner, Dancing Nathan. Together, they created an online presence that brought joy and laughter to countless viewers.
Tillie’s joyful melodies on her accordion became the soundtrack of family gatherings, infusing every occasion with an unmistakable warmth. Among her cherished songs was the silly and unique ‘Butterbean Song’ that will forever echo in our hearts. A sweet reminder of shared laughter and love. Beyond the music, Grandma’s green thumb painted our world in blossoms. She found solace in gardening and flowers.
Though we mourn the physical loss of Tillie, we take solace in the knowledge that her spirit lives on in the laughter of her stories, her potato salad recipe, and the love woven into the fabric of our family.
A celebration of Tillie’s life will be held at 4pm on Thursday, November 16, 2023 at St. Mark Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church or Positive Approach to Care (Teepa Snow’s Nonprofit Supporting Families Living with Dementia).
May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the beauty she brought into our lives.