With deepest sorrow, we announce that Elijah Curtis Tillman, age 21, cherished and beloved son of Crystal Donavant and Joseph "Jo Jo" Tillman, proud father to Ava Jean Slate-Tillman who he shared with Kaylah Slate, loving brother of Naven Donavant, Lilly Rose Welch, and Elisah Tillman, adored grandson of Curtis Donavant, Sharon Bennett, Cecil Braddey, and Barbara Shepherd, passed away suddenly on March 7, 2021.

A lifelong resident of Hampton, Elijah attended Bethel High School and was a 2016 graduate of Commonwealth Challenge Youth Academy class of #45. He was employed by H.B.H. Industrial Services where he worked as a repair mechanic. Those who knew him, even just a little, lost a shining light in their lives.

Spending time with family was what Elijah loved to do most. He was known and loved for his bright smile, huge heart and natural ability to make us all feel important and loved by him; especially the kids. He enjoyed a simple life. He loved to listen to country music by the fire, camping, fishing, snow boarding and kicking back to enjoy a cold one. The accomplishment he was most proud of was becoming a father to Ava Jean. Being her Daddy came so naturally to him, we all beamed with pride to watch him with her. His daughter was truly his best friend and the greatest love of his life.

Elijah will be deeply missed everyday by his close family of many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who he loved wholeheartedly. Perhaps he will be missed most by his daughter, Ava Jean, cousin Ariana Harvey, grandfather Curtis Donavant, great-grandmother Ida Donavant and godmother, Jennifer Brenzel, all with whom he shared a special relationship.

We take comfort in knowing that Elijah is now with his aunt, Felicia "Jeannie" Donavant and grandmother, Debbie Simmons-Price.

The family will be receiving visitors from 6 to 7 PM on Monday, March 15th, at W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home located at 210 Harpersville Road, Newport News. Covid-19 restrictions are being followed, and masks and social distancing are required. If you are unable to attend during the visitation hour, you may come on Monday from 10 AM to 4 PM. We ask that you please sign our guest book upon visiting. A private service for immediate family will follow the visitation.

The family would be honored if you would join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 20th, at 5 PM at the home of Heather & Judson Clements, 21 Flaxmill Drive, Newport News, to share food, light refreshments, memories and stories.