Charles Tilly was the son of David and Isabel Tilly, of Whangarei, New Zealand; husband of L. Margaret Tilly, of Invercargill, Southland, New Zealand.

Son of Mr and Mrs D Tilly of 15 Bernard St, Whangarei, and husband of Mrs L M Tilly of Gore.

Born in Whangarei, where his father for many years managed the gas works. His qualities for leadership early became apparent and in 1924-25 he was one of the head boys at the High School, as well as captaining the cricket eleven for one year. His fine personality and ability to set an example for others particularly fitted him for the teaching profession, which early in life he determined to make his career. He served with the Auckland Education Board and later in Canterbury, being stationed in Timaru when he enlisted soon after the outbreak of war. Ray represented Whangarei at both cricket and football and was also a good tennis player. As a track athlete he won many trophies and his record for throwing the cricket ball stood for many years on the High School lists. AWMM