Scott James Tillman Lanier's Obituary
Scott James Tillman Lanier, 60, of Gainesville, FL passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, October 24, 2025. Scott was born in Gainesville, FL on March 26, 1965, to Lynn Oscar and Fleeta Tomlinson Tillman. Scott was the first born of 7 children. Scott graduated from Santa Fe High School in 1983 where he was the all-star pitcher for the Raiders baseball team. The fact he was a left-handed pitcher made his pitching abilities even more special. During his time in high school, he was voted the Gainesville Sun’s player of the year. Scott was the first high school pitcher to be picked up straight out of high school to pitch for the University of Florida Gators baseball team. Following an injury, he later played on the baseball team at Santa Fe College. He worked most of his life for Arrow Exterminators as a pest control technician. Scott loved the game of baseball and was a huge Gator fan. He enjoyed spending his free time fishing and hunting. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and especially being with his 2 grandchildren Lachlan and Hadley.
He is preceded in death by both grandparents, Albert E. & Mae Clara ( Parrish) Tillman
James A. & Mallonea (Jones) Tomlinson and a cousin that Scott thought of as a brother, Greg Beggs.
Scott is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Kristie Lanier and daughter Maria Danielle (Shane) Lanier, his grandchildren Lachlan and Hadley, his parents, Lynn ( Lisa) Tillman & Fleeta (Tomlinson) Lanier, and his siblings Stacy (Troy) Alligood, Stephanie (Chad) Tyler, Allisha (Joseph) Piazza, Ashley (Dan) Perez, Lindsay (Jonathan) Rodgers, and Luke (Haley) Tillman. Also surviving are many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, co-workers, and wonderful friends who became family.
The family will receive friends Friday, November 7, 2025, from 5:00-7:00PM at Williams-Thomas Funeral Home Downtown, 404 N. Main Street, Gainesville, FL. A Memorial Service to honor his life will be held Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 11:00AM at the funeral home with Pastor Jim Riley officiating.
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