Editor's note: This is part of a series of Flintside articles highlighting women religious leaders in Flint.
A native of Oak Park, Michigan, Catrina Tillman completed her undergraduate studies at Ferris State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in advertising. She furthered her studies, earning a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix. Lady Tillman has had a successful career in advertising and marketing for over 10 years working with brands including General Motors and Ford Motor Company.
Lady Tillman’s greatest joys are being the proud wife of Ezra L. Tillman, Jr. who serves as pastor of First Trinity Missionary Baptist Church, and the mother of their four sons, Ezra III, Micah, Isaac, and Luke. In support of her husband’s pastoralship, Lady Tillman resigned from her position at Team Detroit (Ford Motor Company) to fully commit to her role as mom-in-chief. Having a servant’s heart and a love for man-kind, Lady Catrina Tillman alongside her husband Pastor Ezra Tillman Jr. has been a leader in the response efforts to the Flint Water Crisis. On Feb 1, 2016, the Environmental Justice Rally was held at First Trinity Missionary Baptist Church where over 500,000 cases of bottled water were distributed to the citizens of Flint. The Lott Carey Herald took note of Lady Tillman’s ongoing involvement in aiding those affected by the water crisis. The national magazine did a featured article titled “Bridge Over Troubled Water” in the summer 2016 issue highlighting her engagement and leadership.
Having a love for God’s Word, coupled with a passion for aiding women in pursuing their dreams, Lady Tillman founded SHE Ministries. SHE (Spiritual Humble and Elegant) Ministries thrives on empowering women from all walks of life to live out their God-given purpose with excellence. S.H.E Ministries was featured in the 2017 May issue of Kingdom Christian Magazine, highlighting SHE Speaks, a weekly Facebook Live Chat with Lady Tillman discussing Real Talk, Real Topics, and Real Solutions.
In November of 2017, Lady Tillman released her first book titled “Her Walk: The Journey Within,” a 31-Day Devotional. Within its first month, over 500 copies were sold nationwide. Lady Tillman enjoys talking about the practical things of life while being able to find God in them.
It is her desire that God’s children humbly seek Him to understand his/her purpose in life and operate in confidence knowing what God has destined for them is just for them. Her favorite scripture is “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with my eye.” (Psalm 32:8)
Throughout the month of March, Flintside will profile women in Flint’s religious community. If you are interested in participating or nominating a woman who should be profiled, please email
[email protected].
Related story: Flint first ladies come together as united force
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