Martilla “Tillie” Rae Whitmore

Martilla “Tillie” Rae Whitmore

Batavia

Martilla “Tillie” Rae Whitmore, 91, of Batavia, IA passed away on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at the Keosauqua Health Care Center in Keosauqua, IA. A graveside service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 29, 2024, in the Batavia Cemetery with Pastor Tom Shipley officiating. A visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at the Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield, IA. Memorial contributions in Tillie’s honor may be directed to Hospice Compassus. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Martilla Rae "Tillie" Whitmore was born in the rural Floris on June 15, 1932, she was the cherished daughter of Glen and Lorene Fite Whitmore. Tillie attended a rural school in Floris before proudly graduating from Cardinal High School in Batavia, a time during which she met her lifelong love, Marvin Whitmore. Their enduring partnership began on February 10, 1951, and was briefly paused when Marvin was drafted to serve in Korea.

Upon his return, Tillie embarked on a new journey as a housewife, supporting Marvin as he took to farming, demonstrating a work ethic and commitment that were second to none. Tillie brought her keen sense of business and community spirit to the Batavia Hardware Store, which they purchased in 1961. Tillie managed the store while Marvin was out working on calls. Tillie's passion for music resonated through her life; a self-taught guitarist, she found joy in sharing her skill, giving many guitar lessons. She was also active in the church where she enjoyed sharing her musical talents.

Tillie's memory will be forever honored by her devoted husband, Marvin of Batavia; her son; and two grandchildren. She is also survived by four siblings.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her her siblings Wallace Goodwin and Ardith Teeter, and brothers-in-law Junior Carey and Calvin Whitmore.