Zachariah James Tellis

Born to Willie James Tellis & Ann Tellis Barnswell at Bethany Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. Zachariah Attended Harper High School in Chicago, Illinois where he graduated with his high school diploma.

Zach continued his education on to Lincoln College of Technology, where he earned a diploma certification in Diesel and Truck Technology. Following his graduation, Zach entered the corporate world gaining hands on experience within the diesel industry.

Zach had a strong entrepreneurial mindset and knew that in order to bring his dreams into fruition, he just had to DO IT! After gaining years of experience and mastering his craft, Zach decided to put all fear behind him, and start his own business known as ZT Diesel Service and Repair, LLC.

Zach started off as a 1099 self-employed contractor assisting several local shops. From that, his business continued to grow by word of mouth. Zach was so good at what he did, that he did not have to advertise his business, and his clientele base continued to grow in volume.

Although, business was doing well, Zach always had a desire for more. He had plans to eventually start a logistical company to transport goods and services via the trucking industry.

Zach knew his craft and executed it to the fullest. Everyone that encountered him on a professional level, grew a strong connection with him as their diesel mechanic.

Additionally, Zach and his wife had other businesses in which they operated as entrepreneurs. They love to travel, and so it only made since for them to have a travel business. They have created many memorable vacations packages for their clients to enjoy. However, it didn’t stop there. Zach and Alexis went on to study the real estate industry and started a business in that arena as well. Zach was all about having multiple streams of income. He always had the saying “Let’s Get It”, and he meant just that!

Zach was such a family person! He loved to do anything that brought a smile to the face of all of his family members. Whether it was to joke around, dance, mock things we did or said, take funny photos, etc. Even in trying times, he knew how to make us smile. He always made a laughing matter out of every situation to keep our spirits lifted up.

Zach made sure that his family would never have to lack for anything. He was fully devoted into the lives of his children whether it was just life itself, sports, social, discipline, random outings, etc.

Zach helped any and everyone that needed it. Whether it was providing you with a word of encouragement, supporting your business by purchasing from you and/or sharing your business-related posts via social media, providing a place to stay to family in need, etc. He was always there.

Zach enjoyed taking his son to football games every opportunity he had. He loved taking the girls on seafood boil dates, or wherever they wanted to go. Zach made sure we always had family time. This could range from something as simple as partaking in activities within our own city or traveling to other destinations.

Zach also loved spending time with his mom, sisters, nieces, nephews, and cousins. We have created so many memories with him that we can continue to cherish on today and forever.

Zach leaves to cherish his memories of his beautiful loving childhood sweetheart of 10 years whom he then wedded for 16 years. His three astonishing children Za’Kayla, Jasmine, and Zachariah Jr.

Zach also leaves behind his loving and devoted mother Ann Tellis Barnswell and Step-father Barry Barnswell whom raised him, and biological father Willie James Tellis of Lafayette, IN.

Zach leaves his beautiful sisters Lady and Nikki Tellis of Lafayette, IN. His oldest brother who proceeded him in death Orlanzo Sweet Tellis and step-brother Barry Cash of Atlanta, GA. Three Siblings (cousins) Danny, Tina, and Terrance Wallace of Evansville, whom he grew up with in the same household.

A special aunt and a second Mother Fannie Tisley. Also, two nephews Ca’Von Harrell and Desmond Wallace whom he considered as his own children. Zach also had a hand full of nieces and nephews beyond those two that he loved dearly.

Zach leaves behind his mother-in law Grace Acquah, and Father in-law Stephen Osei. Additionally, his sister-in law Lynnette Osei and brother in-laws Kingsley, Isaac, and Stephen Jr. Osei.

Zach also leaves behind his two beautiful cousins Tasha and Felicia Wallace of Evansville. His special friends, Akil, Dahveed, Deonte, Tyrus, and Jose, whom he considered his brothers.

Zach was so FULL of LIFE, and today we will celebrate him accordingly. Music was like therapy to the soul for him. He loved almost all genres, and you will most definitely hear him coming. Zach always said to his family, and I quote “if anything ever happens to me, I don’t want a traditional service…turn me ALL THE WAY UP! In the service, at the burial, and the repast”. Baby, I heard you loud and clear, and we are going to do just that.

Visitation and services will be by invitation only.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Alexis for his children’s college funds. Donations may be sent via Zelle to [email protected].