Chad Arthur Tillman, 46, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, passed away in September 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, friendships, and people whose lives were made better simply because he was part of them. Chad would have been the first to tell you that he was an asshole. He said it often, and with the kind of conviction that suggested he genuinely expected people to believe him. Unfortunately for Chad, his actions told a very different story. Behind the exterior was one of the most generous, compassionate, and fiercely loyal people anyone could know. Chad had a habit of opening his home, his heart, and whatever else he had to people who needed help. He never had to have much to be willing to share it. Whether someone needed a place to sleep, a meal, a friend, or simply someone who believed in them when they couldn't believe in themselves, Chad was there. He helped people rebuild their lives, often without realizing just how much he had changed them. Chad was also a lifelong storyteller. He loved books, fantasy, science fiction, role-playing games, and especially Star Wars. He had an amazing imagination and love for creating worlds, characters, and adventures that brought people together. It was never about the game. It was about the people around the table, the laughter they shared, and the memories they made. He passed that love of storytelling on to younger generations, including children who came to know him as a beloved uncle, godfather, and friend.

Chad loved to cook and could make a great meal out of just about anything he found in the kitchen. He loved his family dearly, especially his mother and grandfather, both of whom he missed very much. Some of Chad's closest relationships were not defined by blood. He believed in family built through love, loyalty, and showing up for one another. He was a brother in every way that mattered to Christian Balmer, and a devoted godfather to Kylar Williams, Maramoni Balmer, Baedon Balmer, Aviendha Balmer, and Octavia Balmer. He was a constant presence in their lives, sharing his humor, imagination, and generous heart. Chad is survived by his father, Clinton O. Tillman; his sisters, China Duchesne and Chana Tillman; their families; numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews; his beloved dog and longtime best friend, Macoda; and the many friends who considered him family. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Cheri Tillman; his grandparents, Russell Tillman, Patricia Killingsworth, Everett Huisenga, and Ardola Huisenga; and other cherished family members. Chad's legacy cannot be measured in possessions or accomplishments. It lives in the people he helped, the children he inspired, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless stories that will continue to be told about him. For a man who claimed to hate everyone, he sure spent a lot of his life loving people.

And he was damn good at it.

Chad was cremated and his ashes will be laid to rest in a private family service. Arrangements were entrusted to Arnold Moore & Neekamp Funeral Service and Cremation Service. To send an online condolence, visit www.honoringmemoriesbartlesville.com.