Teonnie Mae Tillman

Teonnie Tillman
of Ankeny, Iowa

Teonnie Tillman, 17, was taken too soon on Saturday, July 4, 2026. From by a senseless act of gun violence. She was born on February 21, 2009, to Connie Handt and Monroe Tillman, Jr.

Teonnie lived life with a joyful, free spirit and a heart full of love. She was excited for her future and was preparing to join the National Guard. She was also on track to graduate early in December, a milestone she was proud to achieve.

She found happiness in the simple moments—driving with the windows down, singing at the top of her lungs with her friends, laughing until she couldn't breathe, and making memories with the people she loved. Her laugh was contagious, and her sense of humor could brighten even the darkest days.

Teonnie had a deep love for both people and animals. She loved her family and friends fiercely and wholeheartedly, always making those around her feel cared for and appreciated. She embraced life without taking it too seriously, always seeking adventure and living each day to the fullest.

She loved driving a little too fast, stopping at Seven Brew for her favorite drink, and spending evenings watching horror movies. More than anything, Teonnie loved deeply, laughed often, and lived fully. Her beautiful spirit, kind heart, and unforgettable smile will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

Those left to cherish Teonnie’s memory include her loving, mother Connie Williams (Jerico Williams), Sisters Trinessa Handt and Ciahna Tillman, Brothers Montrese Tillman (November Conklin), Tabias Williams and Jasiah Williams, Grandma Robin Newell, Aunt Nikki McMahon, Cousins Kyirah Villegas and Jayden Joshua, Niece Gianna Tillman, Great Uncle Don Browne, Great Aunt Dawn Browne, all of friends and family dog Angel.

Teonnie is also survived by her father, Monroe (Jamesha) Tillman Jr.; uncles, Demetrius Tillman and Terrell Tillman; grandmother, Carmen Tillman and grandfather, Monroe Tilliman Sr.

Teonnie was preceded in death by her…. Great Grandma Donna Dempster, Great Grandma Charlotte Nagle, Great Aunt Sue Caldwell, Great Aunt Shawna Stone, her dog Abel.

Family will greet guests on Friday, July 17, 2026 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street, Des Moines. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 12:00 p.m., at the funeral home.

*Candle Light Vigil to be announced*

Memorial contributions may be directed to her family in loving memory of Teonnie.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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