California Men’s Colony reported the passing of retired Correctional Sergeant Terry Tilton on Dec. 1, 2019.
Tilton was killed in an automobile accident.
He started his CDCR career in April 1994 as a cadet at the Basic Correctional Officer Academy. After graduating, he reported to the Correctional Training Facility in May 1994 as a Correctional Officer.
In October 1995, he transferred to California Men’s Colony. Later, in April 2000, he was promoted to Correctional Sergeant.
He retired in February 2009 when he became the full-time caregiver for his wife, Emily. He was her caregiver until her passing years later. The California native enjoyed music, acting and playing guitar.
He is survived by his brother, Dr. Ralph Tilton.
A celebration of life was held at Mission San Luis on Dec. 13, 2019.
Condolences left for Terry Tilton
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Terry. My friendship with both Terry and Emily began in the 1980s in the local theater community. I’ll always remember Terry’s wonderful performance in ‘The Petrified Forest’ at the old hilltop San Luis Obispo Little Theatre. My heartfelt condolences to his family,” wrote John Pillow.
Former coworker C. Yanez wrote: “My deepest condolences to the Tilton family. I worked with Sergeant Tilton at California Men’s Colony for a number of years. He was very kind and always a pleasure to work with. May you find peace in your time of sorrow.”
Another friend, J. Smith, also had kind words Tilton: “What I remember the most was his laughter and smile. I always felt he had a great heart and a willingness to ‘pitch in’ whenever needed. Terry was one of the gifts to the world.”
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.