May 14, 2026, 86, Goldsboro – Telitha Heath Lewis, affectionately known as “Tillie”, was born on June 9, 1939, in Wayne County, NC, to the late Preston and Telitha Heath. She died at her home in Goldsboro, NC, on May 14, 2026.
Tillie received her education in Wayne County, where she attended Pikeville Training School and graduated in 1957. After graduation, she moved to Washington, DC, where she met and married Albert Lewis Jr. From that union, one daughter was born. After her divorce, she met her soulmate, William “Bill” Keels, who predeceased her in 2012. She was employed by the US Patent Office for 28 years, during which she received numerous awards and commendations for her excellent work ethic. Known for her deep desire to help others, she devoted her time to faithful volunteer work at church and various nonprofits after retiring in 2001.
She had a strong faith in the Lord and was a member of New Greenleaf Church of Christ in Goldsboro and later of Paramount Baptist Church in Washington, DC, until she relocated. She loved to travel, visiting 25 states. She also enjoyed gardening, watching black-and-white movies, and following political shows.
She is survived by a large, loving family, including her daughter, Natasha Lee; her son-in-love, William Lee; and her only grandchild, Anthony Lee of Waxahachie, TX. She is also survived by two brothers and three sisters: Alfred Heath and Johnny Heath, both of Goldsboro, NC; Anne Heath of Alexandria, VA; Brenda Lane (Charles) of Goldsboro, NC; and Dena Hines of Forestville, MD.
Tillie was preceded in death by four brothers and four sisters: Preston Heath Jr., Charles Heath, Pedro Heath, Ralph Earl Heath, Estelle Secrest, Minnie Hucks, Gloris Heath, and Lois Allen. She is also survived by one sister-in-love, Pastor Dorothy Heath, and by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who love her and will miss her.
A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 11 am at Howell Funeral Home and Crematory, 1500 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC. She will be laid to rest at Heritage Memorial Cemetery in Waldorf, MD.
In lieu of flowers, please contribute to your favorite charity. Her favorite color was blue, so we invite attendees to the service to wear something blue.
Professional services entrusted to Howell Funeral Home & Crematory in Goldsboro.
