June 3, 1943 – April 16, 2026
It is with great sadness that the family of John Tilmon Martin announces his passing on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Born on June 3, 1943, in Alberton, Prince Edward Island, he was the son of the late Alphonse and Olive (Des Roches) Martin.
Tilmon lived a life defined by kindness, quiet independence, and a deep commitment to others, along with a well-timed joke and a story for nearly every occasion. He had a natural gift for storytelling and a quick sense of humour that could put people at ease and leave them smiling. He was a devoted educator who taught mathematics at St. Peters Junior High and St. Vincent’s High School. Teaching was not simply a profession for him – it was a calling. He gave generously of his time and energy, especially to students who needed extra help, always ensuring no one was left behind. Patient, attentive, and approachable, Tilmon took a genuine interest in his students’ lives. He was a mentor, an advisor, and a steady source of encouragement, offering thoughtful guidance and constructive feedback. His students respected and loved him – not just for his teaching, but for the warmth, humour, and humanity he brought into the classroom.
Beyond the classroom, Tilmon had a competitive spirit and a love for sports. He enjoyed golf, bowling, darts, and shuffleboard, and was always ready to join (or organize) a sports pool – baseball, football, and hockey included. A longtime member of the Westfield Golf & Country Club, he proudly celebrated two holes-in-one, achievements he may have mentioned once or twice…or more, depending on the company. In retirement, he cherished time spent with friends, whether at regular gatherings or over coffee at Tim Hortons or McDonald’s, where conversations were lively and laughter was never far behind. Family was central to Tilmon’s life. Sunday dinners with his sister Norma and her husband Gary were especially important to him and remained a treasured tradition. Tilmon also had a soft spot for animals, particularly cats, and his gentle nature extended to all living things.
In his final months, Tilmon was cared for with compassion and kindness by the staff at Saint John Regional Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital, many of whom were former students. Their care was a reflection of the respect and goodwill he had fostered throughout his life. As Tilmon often said, “Be nice to those on your way up, as you might meet them on your way down.” True to form, he met those moments with grace and a bit of charm that had everyone smiling.
Tilmon is survived by his sisters Norma Murphy (Gary) and Eleanor McKiel (Terry); his nieces, Tara McCullough (Tim), Nora Sweet, Erin Burke (Christopher), and Amy McKiel (Alan); his nephew, Michael Murphy (Rachel); great-niece, Charlotte Dee (Kyle); and great-nephews, Conor McCullough (Jenn Connolly), Liam McCullough, Justin Murphy, Andrew Murphy, Austin Muise; as well as a wide circle of cousins and close friends.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Tilmon in his final days. He enriched the lives of those around him with kindness, humour, and quiet generosity. He leaves behind many stories, much laughter, and a lasting reminder that a good heart (and a good sense of humour) go a long way. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded to ask: what more could a person hope for?
Arrangements are under the care of Castle Funeral Home, 309 Lancaster Avenue, Saint John. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 22, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Our Lady of the Assumption Church on Thursday, April 23, at 12:00 noon. Following the Mass, all are welcome to gather for a reception at the Assumption Centre, 721 Chapel Street. Interment will take place at a later date at Holy Cross Cemetery. For those who wish, donations in Tilmon’s memory may be made to Bobby’s Hospice, Romero House, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
