Roosevelt Tillman

Roosevelt Tillman, affectionately known as "RT," passed away on May 19, 2024, at his residence in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Born on March 26, 1966, in Tchula, Mississippi. He was the beloved son of Virginia Bailey Tillman.

Roosevelt lived a life marked by hard work, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. Roosevelt attended St. Andrews Catholic Elementary, Catholic Central, and Ottawa Hills High School. He earned an associate degree from Kalamazoo Community College and was working on a bachelor’s degree in business at Western Michigan University when he jumped all-in to start his first skilled labor subcontracting business. This business became “CTS,” a national skilled labor subcontracting business that placed hundreds of non-union skilled tradesmen throughout the country annually. Roosevelt's trailblazing spirit marked his career, earning him the title "Baron of Division." As an entrepreneur, he owned over a dozen properties and businesses including medical device manufacturing (Veteran Medical Products), retail and commercial shopping centers, night clubs, restaurants, and more.

Roosevelt was a pillar of the Grand Rapids business community. He began his entrepreneurial journey early in life, establishing several successful ventures that not only thrived, but also provided employment opportunities and economic growth for the local area. His business acumen, coupled with his integrity and passion for innovation, earned him respect and admiration from peers and employees alike.

At home, Roosevelt had a lifelong love for animals, especially dogs. Zeus, Misty, Murphy, Jasmine and finally Milo added extra love to his life. He enjoyed watching movies, particularly science fiction. It is believed that one of his favorite movies was “Dog Soldiers." He also loved playing basketball with his children and was always present to support them in their endeavors, whether as a manager or spectator. He instilled in his children a love of music, singing to songs such as Boyz II Men's “Can You Stand the Rain.” He was an exceptional cook, constantly perfecting new recipes. Roosevelt made it known that he deeply loved his children. Every week with a call or text, he made sure to let them know “I love you and I'm proud of you.”

Roosevelt leaves behind his mother, Virginia Bailey Tillman, and his siblings: Mable Nickerson, Levi (Junior) Tillman (Cecila), Annette Hayes-Foy (Patrick), Lisa Tillman, Nicole Tillman, Blanche Avent (Joe L.), Wendy Tillman, Delaware Tillman, Tonjay Bailey-Tillman, Cortney Tillman (Kwynn), and Natalie Tillman. In addition, he leaves behind a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

His legacy will live on through his children: Roosevelt Jalen (Heather), Benjamin James, Parker Jeffrey (Lauren), Xavier Justis (Tamia), and Madisyn Jenae. Roosevelt was the grandfather to Ayanna Justis (Xavier), Xavier Justis Jr. (Xavier), Leilani Justis (Xavier), Ezran Jameson (Benjamin), Brooklyn Joy (Roosevelt), and Ezari Jaxon (Benjamin). Roosevelt’s legacy as a loving father, dedicated professional, passionate role model, and community trailblazer will forever be cherished by his family and friends.