
Donny David Tiller
October 1, 1954 - August 25, 2026
Dave Tiller said his goodbyes on August 25, 2026. He was preceded by the passing of his wife, Russie Lynn Pierce-Tiller, on August 12, 2024; his parents, Joseph and Wilma Tiller; and three brothers, Lonnie, Guarry, and Burniss Tiller.
He is survived by his sister, Delma Palumbo, and younger brother, Ronnie Joe Tiller, along with three of Russie’s children, including two daughters, Lisa Honeywell and Leslie Pierce, and son Michael Vaughn. His grandchildren are Brandi Prisco, Holly Crenshaw, and Dena Bergeron. Dave has seven great-grandchildren: Aaralyn and Hazel Crenshaw; Bryanna, Bryan II, and Braxten Prisco; Miahna Bergeron; and Leilani Trahan.
David retired after 26 years as a superintendent from Mitchell Energy. He and Russie were married 47 years. They enjoyed living on the banks of the Vermilion River in Abbeville, Louisiana, having a beautiful life together.
Recently, Dave mentioned to Lisa and Leslie on more than one occasion that he had been looking forward to going fishing soon with his brothers, Lonnie, Guarry, and Burniss, who had already passed away. It’s suspected that somewhere deep down in Dave’s heart and soul, he intuitively knew that he would be seeing them again soon.
Dave had a passion for fast bikes, having had a Harley and currently an Indian Motorcycle. His pool table got some action; however, much of his time was spent outdoors organic gardening, where he was known for the best tasting and tender asparagus in town. A favorite food of Dave’s was cornbread, which interestingly is how he fell in love with Russie and her cooking, as she pulled the hot cast iron skillet of cornbread from the oven the first time he was invited for dinner.
His grandchildren gathered frequently for swimming pool parties where his superb grilling and barbeque techniques were much appreciated. He entertained and dare we say “spoiled” them all.
Dave’s favorite quote was, “Same stuff, another day,” and although this one was Russie’s favorite, Dave took pleasure in reciting it: “Joy riding the universe.” We are certain that Russie and Dave are back together again and are indeed joy riding the universe.
In lieu of a public memorial service, the family elected to host a private gathering, to be announced at a later date.
