Connie Hopkins Tilley, 63, Loved Chilmark Summers

Connie Hopkins Tilley, 63, of Holcomb, N.Y., died Aug. 13, 2006, shortly after her last visit, in June, to Martha's Vineyard.

When Connie Tilley visited the Vineyard for the first time in 1973, it was love at first sight. At the time, she was a secretary for Mobil Chemical Co. in Rochester, N.Y., and was excited about her supervisor building a new summer home in Chilmark. She quickly agreed to open or close the house for the season in exchange for the ability to stay as long as she wanted.

In the 33 years since that first visit, Connie came every year but two, and introduced many friends and family to the Island she loved so dearly.

In 1987, she married her husband, Tom Tilley, and Tom grew to love the Vineyard just as Connie did. Menemsha and Squibnocket beach were two of their favorite places, and they would spend many long hours simply enjoying the sights, smells and sounds of everything around them. Long quiet walks, seafood from Larsen's, and clam chowder from the Bite frequently were on their agenda.

Survivors include her husband, Tom Tilley; four children and their spouses; a sister; a brother; and nine grandchildren.

She will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her. At her request, her ashes will be cast on the waves at Squibnocket beach.