Wayne G. Tilley

Wayne Gilbert Tilley, 74, of Salisbury, Maryland, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, in Baltimore, Maryland, surrounded by family who kept faithful watch at his bedside in his final days. He was born on October 12, 1951, in Caribou, Maine, and spent the greater part of his life in Northern Maine before making his home in Salisbury.

Wayne served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force for over 28 years, retiring at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant — the highest enlisted grade and a rank earned by few. Following his military retirement, he built a second career as a Program Manager in government contracting.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who made it a point to show up for the people he loved — whether that meant a long drive, a helping hand, or simply being present. He had a lifelong love of the outdoors, and could be found hunting, fishing, or camping when he wasn't on a golf course or planning his next trip to visit family and friends.

Wayne faced more than 40 years of illness with the same quiet resolve that defined his life — enduring cancer, cancer-related kidney failure, multiple kidney transplants, and countless complications. He met each of those battles on his own terms, and passed peacefully, with family by his side.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Suzzanne; his son, Christopher; his daughter, Kathryn; his brother, James; his grandchildren, Jordan, Anastasia, Megan, Jacob, and Sarah; and his great-granddaughter, Maia.

A celebration of life will be held later this summer in Presque Isle, Maine. Military honors are planned for spring 2027. Details will be shared with family and friends as arrangements are finalized.