Michael Todd Tilley

Michael Todd Tilley, 54, of Atlantic Beach, passed away on Monday, March 18, 2024 at his home in Atlantic Beach.

Todd's passion for racing ignited at a young age at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, where the roar of engines and the thrill of speed captured his heart. This love of racing was a thread woven throughout his life, one that he eagerly shared with his children. Todd took great pride in teaching them to race go-carts as youngsters, nurturing their skills until they, too, grew to compete in racing cars at the very stadium where his own love for the sport began.

In 2014, Todd embarked on a new chapter of his life when he moved to the beach with his beloved wife, Kristin. It was there that he discovered another passion: fishing. The quiet patience and sudden excitement of the catch suited him well, and he became an avid fisherman, often seen with a contented smile as he waited for the next bite.

Boating with his family gave Todd immense joy. He loved nothing more than taking them out on the water, sharing with them the sense of freedom and adventure that he so cherished. His grandchildren, in particular, held a special place in his heart, and he took every opportunity to take them boating, instilling in them the same love for the sea that he had.

Todd's adventurous spirit was matched only by his courage. He faced life's challenges head-on, with a strength that inspired those around him. His loving nature was the foundation upon which he built his life, a life filled with laughter, warmth, and an abundance of love.

As we bid farewell to Todd, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest. He leaves behind a legacy of passion, a family that adores him, and memories that will be cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Todd's spirit will continue to race through the hearts of his loved ones, just as it once raced around the tracks of Bowman Gray Stadium.

Though Todd has crossed the final finish line, the echoes of his laughter, the tales of his adventures, and the love he shared will continue to resonate with us all. His was a life well-lived, and while we will miss him dearly, we take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, perhaps casting a line into celestial waters or steering a boat into the sunset of eternity.

He is survived by his wife of ten years, Kristin Tilley of Atlantic Beach; son, Michael Ray Tilley and wife, Amanda of Newport; son, Dillon Todd Tilley and wife, Taylor of Winston-Salem; son, Tylor Walser of Lexington; four grandchildren, Landon, Cooper, Rayson, Maylee; his mother, Shenelia Cooper and husband, Larry of Winston-Salem; sister, Lori Bowman and husband, Kevin of Winston-Salem; sister, Kristan Moser and husband, J.T. of Rural Hall; and his mother-in-law, Bobbi Nichols of Atlantic Beach.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Tilley.

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the RAAB Cancer Center, 3500 Arendell St. Morehead City, NC 28557.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.