Obituary of David T. Tilghman
Please share a memory of David to include in a keepsake book for family and friends.
David T. Tilghman, born on January 25, 1934, in Trenton, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on January 22, 2026.
David was a hardworking and dedicated man whose life was rooted in family, community, and honest work. For 32 years, he was part owner of what was formerly known as the Crossroad Diner in Wrightstown, NJ, with his mother, Marie Tilghman. An amazing cook, David took great pride in his food and the memories made around the table.
He spent many years working at Tilghman's Used Auto Parts, and later with N.A.D.E. in Bordentown, where he remained employed until his retirement. David resided in Jobstown, NJ for many years before making his final home in Browns Mills, NJ.
David had a deep love for New York Mets baseball, bluegrass music, and spirited conversations. His nieces and nephews fondly remember the many laughs and meaningful talks they shared with "Uncle Dave," especially about baseball and politics-moments that will be cherished forever.
He was predeceased by his parents, Marie T. Tilghman and Joseph Tilghman; his sister, Dorothy McCue; his brother, Joseph J. Tilghman Jr.; and his son, Matthew Tilghman.
David is survived by his brother, John H. Tilghman (Mary) of Ellsworth, Maine. He is also survived by his children: David Tilghman Jr. (MaryBeth) of Furlong, PA; Kim Raspatello of Levittown, PA; James M. Tilghman of Mt. Laurel, NJ; Lisa Tilghman of Morrisville, PA; and Denise Tilghman of Browns Mills, NJ.
He was a proud grandfather to Benjamin Tilghman (Michelle) of Furlong, PA; Heather O'Malley (Joseph) of Hamilton, NJ; Kate Tilghman (Chaz) of Doylestown, PA; Matthew Tilghman Jr. of New Jersey; Stephen Tilghman (Paula) of Burlington, NJ; Angela Candelario of Columbus, NJ; Jorge Candelario, (his caregiver), of Browns Mills, NJ; Jamie Schrader (Frank) of Hamilton, NJ; Gaetano Raspatello (Stephanie) of North Wales, PA; Kevin Kornstedt, Michael Kornstedt, and Fred Kornstedt. He is also survived by numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
David will be remembered for his strong work ethic, warm heart, love of family, and the lasting memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him
Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Gathering and Service on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 5 PM to 7 PM at Tilghman Funeral Home located at 52 Main Street, New Egypt, NJ 08533.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in David's name to Dementia Society of of America (https://www.dementiasociety.org/donate).