Tommy Lee Tillery

In Loving Memory of Tommy Lee Tillery "Tommy Too-Tough Tillery" Tommy Lee Tillery was the seventh and youngest child born to the union of Leroy and Ella Jean Tillery. Affectionately known as the "baby of the family," Tommy brought joy, laughter, and energy wherever he went. He grew up in Bakersfield, California, attending local schools and quickly developing a love for sports and outdoor adventures. From a young age, Tommy had an infectious spirit and a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life. Whether he was organizing games or creating neighborhood fun, Tommy always had a circle of friends by his side. One of Tommy’s greatest passions was animals. He was never without a pet—dogs, birds, chickens, rabbits, and pigeons all found loving homes with him. He took great pride in training them and truly enjoyed the companionship they brought. As a young adult, Tommy discovered his passion for boxing. Known for his resilience and strength in the ring, he earned the nickname “Tommy Too-Tough Tillery.” In the early 1980s, he launched his professional boxing career and quickly became a fan favorite. After retiring from the ring, Tommy founded his own boxing gym, where he dedicated over 25 years to training both youth and adults. His gym produced several champions, with students competing in tournaments across California. Tommy was especially proud of training female boxers, including Debbie Foster—aka "Lady Warrior"—who went on to become a national record-holding athlete under his guidance. More than just a coach, Tommy was a mentor and father figure to many. He used boxing to steer countless young people away from negative influences like gangs and drugs. His discipline, compassion, and commitment made a lasting difference in the lives he touched. Tommy also had a generous heart for those in need. For the past fifteen years, he dedicated every Friday to preparing and serving meals to the homeless and less fortunate at Mill Creek Park. Feeding between 50 to 200 people at a time, he made sure no one went hungry. In the park, Tommy found another family. He spent his days there playing chess, pinochle, and listening to his favorite music—always with love and laughter in abundance. Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy and Ella Jean Tillery; his sisters, Leona Tillery and Mary Frances Tillery; and two nephews, Eddie L. Oates and Jeremiah K. Jones. He leaves to cherish his memory: his siblings Karen Bradley, Gayle Dixon, Debbie Tillery, and his brother and best friend, Leroy Tillery Jr. (Bay); along with a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Special Mentions: His close friend and confidant Rick C., beloved fighter and friend Debbie Foster (aka "Lady Warrior"), and his cherished boxing family—Pepe, Jaime, Superman, the Uguelo brothers, Frankie, Dennis, and many more. Most dear to him were the many children who lovingly called him “Grandpa Tommy.” Tommy Lee Tillery was a true hometown hero, a mentor, a fighter, a friend, and a man with an unmatched heart for service. Gone but never forgotten. Take your rest, Tommy Lee Tillery.

Tommy Lee Tillery

December 15, 1959 - July 1, 2025

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Tommy Lee Tillery

December 15, 1959 - July 1, 2025

365 Days of Grief Support

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About Us

Grief & Healing

What We Do

Obituaries

Plan Ahead

Resources

Contact Info