Sarina A. Tillis

Sarina Ann Tillis, 93, died suddenly and peacefully in her home on February 9, 2025. Those who knew Sarina could always count on having a memorable encounter with her. She loved her family, faith and most of all any opportunity that arose to converse with family or complete strangers.

Sarina was born to Rosario and Mary (Lidestri) Giallombardo on March 4, 1931, in Norwich, Connecticut. After graduation from Norwich Academy, she spent time at the Hospital of Saint Raphael in New Haven and earned her Nursing Diploma. She went on to work at the United States Coast Guard in New London, Connecticut for two years. Later, Sarina left the Coast Guard Academy to attend St. Louis University on a Service Scholarship. 

It was at St. Louis University where she met John (Jack) Tillis on a blind date. Many dates followed as Sarina earned her Nursing degree and Jack completed his degree in Medicine. They were married on September 29, 1956 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Norwich, Connecticut. The following years found Sarina managing homes in Milwaukee, 29 Palms, Chicago, Des Plaines, and finally Rockford, IL in 1963 where Jack and Sarina settled to raise their family.

Sarina and her family were longtime members of Holy Family Catholic Church. She enjoyed all facets of the Arts while spending time as a Docent at the Rockford Art Museum . She was an active member of the Women’s Club for years. She also enjoyed gardening, playing Bridge, attending Starlight Theater, Rockford Symphony and The Lyric Opera in Chicago.

Sarina mastered an iPhone when she was 89 years old, enjoying the chance to connect with family members on a regular basis. She enjoyed Facetime with her many grandchildren and spent time each day reflecting on her children and grandchildren and dedicated daily prayers to all those she loved.

She is survived by Dr. John Barry (Eileen O’Hagan) Tillis, Dr. William Patrick (Kelly) Tillis, Robert Kevin (Ginger) Tillis, Janet M. (Mark) Lenzini, Carol J. (Glenn Wheelock) Tillis, James M. (Wendy) Tillis and Diane (Mark) Houde. She leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces.

Her family and her many friends will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by husband, Dr. John (Jack) Tillis, and daughter Mary Kathryn Tillis.

Funeral Mass will be held Friday, February 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd. Rockford, IL 61107. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the church. A private burial service will be held at Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made out to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.