Gardner Stratton Tilton

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on January 10, 2024, at the age of 93. Born on July 11, 1930, in Concord, NH, he lived a life filled with adventure, love, and dedication.

Gardner, affectionately known as “Buzz”, had an impressive educational journey. He graduated from Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts in 1949, and later attended Middlebury College in Vermont, where he earned his degree in 1953. Buzz's thirst for knowledge and his commitment to excellence shaped his character and laid the foundation for his future endeavors.

After completing his studies, Buzz embarked on a remarkable military career. He joined the Navy as a Naval Aviation Candidate Cadet and underwent flight training in Pensacola, Florida, and Beeville, Texas. In 1955, he earned his wings and was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida, where he flew the F9F Cougar.

Buzz's skills and dedication led him to serve aboard the aircraft carrier Coral Sea in 1956. He retired from the Navy in 1957 and continued his service in the New Hampshire Air National Guard, flying various aircrafts until his retirement from the Air Force in 1976.

Following his military career, Buzz worked for United Life and Accident Insurance Company, which later became Chubb Life Insurance Company in Concord, New Hampshire. He dedicated 34 years of his life to the company, retiring in 1991. Buzz's commitment to his community was evident in his involvement with the Concord Junior Chamber of Commerce, where he ran the youth t ennis program. He also served as the President of the Board of the Concord Youth Hockey Program, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of young athletes.

Buzz was also an avid golfer and boater. Many of his fondest memories came from time spent at his family’s home on Lake Sunapee. The home was in his family for many generations and Buzz was caretaker to the property for much of that time.

Buzz's family was the center of his world. He is survived by his loving wife, Carol More Tilton, and their three sons: Peter More Tilton and his wife Rachael, Michael Conner Tilton, and David Stratton Tilton and his wife Sharon. He was a proud grandfather to Melissa, Emily, Benjamin and the late Abbey Tilton, as well as three great-grandchildren, Jordan, Michael, and Abigail. He was the brother of Ann Carpenter and the late Mary Jane Bartemus. He was predeceased by his parents, Gardner and Elizabeth Jane (Conner) Tilton, who undoubtedly instilled in him the values that guided his remarkable life.

VISITATION will be held in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston on Saturday, January 20th from 11:00 – 11:30 am. A funeral service will begin at 11:30 am followed by military honors. Burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: HopeHealth Hospice, 1085 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904 or to a charity of your choice.

His funeral service will be live-streamed via the Nardolillo Funeral Home Facebook page:

Gardner Tilton Live-Stream

As we bid farewell to Buzz, let us remember his unwavering dedication, his adventurous spirit, and the love he shared with his family and community. He will forever be cherished and remembered as a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many.