Elizabeth A Tilford

Elizabeth A. Tilford was born April 6, 1930 in McAlester, Oklahoma.  She was one of three children born to Alfonse and Eva Tilford. Elizabeth, affectionately known as “Dutchie”, attended Louverture High School in McAlester, Oklahoma. Following graduating, she journeyed to Kansas City, Kansas in 1951. Because of her expert sewing skills, Dutchie was employed by the Betty Rose Suits and Coats Company; working there 38 years until the business closed.  She then was employed by the University of Kansas Medical Center MRI unit and retired.

Dutchie also cared for children in her home, working with Big Brothers and Big Sisters which resulted in the adoption of her daughter, Sonduree. Elizabeth accepted Christ at an early age.  She was a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church (since 1991) where she worked with the youth, served in Vacation Bible School and was an active and faithful member until her illness. Elizabeth transitioned to be with God May 15, 2020. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister; Eddie Mae, nephew; Don Cole, and niece; Darlene Richardson.

She leaves to treasure her memory daughter; Sonduree Ross, granddaughters; Nia and La’Mya, great granddaughter; A’Jrianna, brother; Tommy (Gwen), nephews; Charles “Chase” and Daniel Richardson whom she helped raise and other special nieces and nephews, cousin and companion; Edwina (Walter) and a host of cousins (many who called her “Aunt Dutchie”)  and many longtime friends. Due to current events and restrictions on numbers at gatherings, all services are limited to just immediate family. 

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, May 26^th at 11:00 A.M at Watkins Heritage Chapel. Visitation 10:00 A.M. Interment Twelve Gates Memorial Gardens.

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