A father of six was helping his son move into a dorm at Arkansas State University August 19 when he collapsed. Tragically, Jeremy Tillman of Russellville, Arkansas, died that day after experiencing a sudden medical emergency. Emergency personnel from the university attempted life-saving measures but could not restart Tillman's heart.
His fiancé, Elizabeth Goodson, spoke to KARK about the "traumatic" incident and how life will never be the same without him. She and Tillman shared a large, blended family who all loved him deeply. His death came just two months after the pair were engaged, and their plans are now just a dream.
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Tillman seemed well earlier in the day as they moved things into the dorm.
His grieving fiancée recounted Tillman's collapse to KARK. "He came through the door, and he was in obvious distress," Goodson said. "He just had a very sudden medical event as we were moving things in. I guess he may have strained too hard."
Campus police reportedly responded to a call about a man not breathing on the Arkansas State University campus just before 10 a.m. Goodson said that although they could not revive Tillman, she was impressed by the university's response.
"I will say the school did a very good job of assisting in every way possible and making sure everyone was moved," she shared.
She said her he was an 'understanding parent.'
In an interview with Today, Goodson remembered her partner's devotion to his family.
"Despite working full-time and part-time at home, he rarely missed important events, and he always made time for movie nights, soccer in the yard, or pull-up competitions. He showed our children how a man should treat a woman, and how to be intentional with your word," she said.
She added that he possessed all the qualities of a great father. "He was selfless, and always worked hard to ensure everyone had the things that they wanted and needed, often to his own detriment. He loved all our children, and was the epitome of what a man and father should be," she shared with the news show.
Tillman had six children of his own and embraced his fiancée’s kids with open arms.
Goodson told Today that even though he was a father of six, "He took me and my 6 children, and chose to integrate us into his life without hesitation."
Everyone loved Tillman, and that it was like he never met a stranger, she told KARK. He was the love of her life. Just days ago she was planning a wedding, and now she plans to wear the dress she purchased for their engagement photos to his funeral.
Many people shared their love for Tillman.
He reportedly worked for Cogswell Motors for 25 years as a service technician. He was a well-loved and respected member of their team.
"To know him was to love him. From always smiling to cracking jokes, no job was too big or small for him to lend a helping hand," the dealership posted on Facebook. The dealership planned to adjust its hours so coworkers can attend his funeral on Wednesday.
The university shared a statement with Today regarding Tillman's untimely passing.
"Chancellor Todd Shields and Arkansas State University extend deepest condolences to student Jace Tillman. The university community will continue to support Jace and keep his family in their thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time," the statement reads, per Today.
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His children will miss their father deeply.
According to his obituary, Tillman is survived by five children. His daughter, Cassie Tillman, preceded him in death. Daughter Hannah Brazil shared her heartache in a Facebook post devoted to her dad.
"My sweet father, this feels unreal. When our family had troubling news I had you to hold me, wipe my tears away. Now not being able to hug you and you tell me you are here breaks my heart. The smell of coffee coming off your breath when you talked," the post reads. "the car grease smell that was on all the furniture in the house. Your crazy (sometimes funny) dad jokes you would say when I had slumber parties. The mornings where you would stop at the gas station on the way to work/school to grab me a chocolate milk and you a coffee. when we would be traveling to an away game and you would fart and lock the windows.
"The random phone calls we would have after I moved out just talking about life. you becoming a grandpa. These memories and much more will always stay," the post continues. "I realize now why you always told me I was strong, you new one day I would need the strength to bear your loss. I just never imagined it would come this soon. I love you forever. Fly high with Cassie I'll see you again one day."
Alicia Farnam Wade posted an endearing message to the friend she lost:
"Jeremy Tillman – When your son speaks your eulogy and says that if grows into half the man that his Dad was, he will consider it a "win". You have left one heck of a legacy my friend! Personally, Jimmy and I are still struggling to wrap our heads around the loss of such a great friend. This world lost an incredible person…. mind boggling I'm sure proud of you Jace Tillman," she wrote.
