Christine Diane Tilley, 61, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, passed away peacefully on the morning of Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Virginia Beach General Hospital.
Born on May 7, 1964, at Norfolk General Hospital to Stella Virginia Eubanks and the late Kenneth Lesley Duke, she grew up in Virginia Beach and graduated as valedictorian of Norfolk Christian. She went on to attend Boston University, earning a B.S. in Astronomy and an M.S. in Mathematics. It was there she met her future husband, James (“Jay”) Andrew Tilley, whom she married shortly after graduating.
She devoted her career to teaching high school math and science, inspiring countless students at schools including Salem High School, Sanborn High School, Alvirne High School, and Austin Preparatory School. Her passion for learning and mentorship shaped her classroom and community alike.
Diagnosed in January 2025 with late stage IV uterine cancer that had metastasized to her liver, lungs, and eventually her brain, she faced her illness with remarkable courage and grace. After six months of treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, she returned home to Virginia Beach, where she spent her final months near family and friends.
She is predeceased by her husband, Jay (2023), and son, James Andrew Tilley (2016). She is survived by her daughter, Kristen Virginia Tilley, and her mother, Stella Virginia Eubanks.
After retiring, she found great joy in listening to her son play piano, cheering on her daughter at track and field meets, and volunteering her time with local homeschool groups to bring science to life through hands-on experiments. She was also a committed philanthropist, supporting several Christian schools and causes in New Hampshire.
In her free time, she loved traveling—especially to Canada and France—working on puzzles, and watching Dancing With the Stars. Above all, she will be remembered for her boundless curiosity, steady faith, and the kindness she shared with everyone around her.
Graveside services will be held on Saturday April 4, 2026 at 10:00am in the New Plains Cemetery, Ministerial Road, Windham, NH where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband Jay and their son James. The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium of Derry and Londonderry is assisting the family with arrangements.