James R. Hilliard

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Robert “Jim” Hilliard, 80, of Dallas, Texas, on August 9, 2025, following complications from a day-surgery heart procedure that led to unexpected open-heart surgery. Jim took his last breath in the ICU and stepped into the presence of his Lord and Savior. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and “Papa.” He was thoughtful, kind, and a true gentleman.

Born on December 7, 1944, in San Antonio, Texas, to Dr. George McIntosh Hilliard Jr. and Irby McKenzie Hilliard, Jim grew up in Jacksonville, Texas, alongside his brother, George, and sister, Sally Ann. At the time of his birth, his father was serving overseas and would not meet his baby boy until 14 months later.

Jim was a proud Baylor Bear and unwavering fan through the good times and the not so good times. He earned his B.A. in 1965 from Baylor University, where he was a member of Esquire Men’s Fraternal Association. After receiving his undergraduate degree, Jim enrolled in Baylor Law School, where he earned his J.D. in 1968 and his LL.M. in 1969. Admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1968, he began a long and distinguished legal career spanning more than five decades, practicing business, entertainment, intellectual property, litigation, wills, trusts, and probate.

His career began with Daugherty, Bruner, Lastelick & Anderson in 1969, followed by Lastelick, Anderson & Hilliard (1975–1992), and later his own firm, James R. Hilliard & Associates, which he led from 1992 until his passing. During his career his courts of admittance included the U.S. Supreme Court; the U.S. Courts of Appeal for the 2nd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 9th, and 11th Circuits; numerous U.S. District Courts; the Texas Supreme Court; and multiple Texas appellate and district courts.

In 1985, Jim married the love of his life, Beth McCall Hilliard, in Jefferson, Texas. Together they built a beautiful family, sharing countless adventures.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Charles and Betty Jo McCall; and his cherished son, John David Goldberg.

He is survived by his wife, Beth; brother, Dr. George Hilliard III; sister, Sally Hilliard Shank; brother-in-law, Dr. Charles McCall Jr. (Wanda); sister-in-law, Ree McCall Witt (Carl); children, Brooke Hilliard Mercer (Mike), Dr. Stuart Hilliard (Amy), Ree Lowery (Monte), and “daughter-in-love” Jennifer Goldberg; grandchildren, Campbell Mercer, Collin Crawford, Reese Lowery, Payton Crawford, Hank Mercer, Ben Lowery, Jack Goldberg, Harrison Hilliard, and Scarlett Mercer; as well as many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his faithful dogs, Montana, Magnolia, and Anabelle.

Jim was a man of boundless curiosity and skill. He loved sailing, macrame, photography, and bluegrass music—especially the dobro, guitar, and dulcimer. His interests also included cycling (both pedal and motor), running, welding, and even rebuilding sewing machines, earning him the family nickname “Mr. Fix-It.” He had a deep passion for history, genealogy, and the Civil War, and was an extraordinary storyteller—earning him a Ph.D. in embellishment.

Jim often joked that he’d never be a rich lawyer because he would do anything for his family and friends. His generosity extended to the community, where he served as chairman of the elders at Redeemer Bible Church and as a longtime board member of the White Rock Center of Hope, including two years as chairman. Jim was also a charter member of Redeemer Bible Church, where he and Beth worshipped for 25 years.

Favorite family memories included trips to Taos, the Guadalupe River, Disney World for John’s Make-A-Wish trip, countless Harley adventures, Camp Hilliard, Jazz Fest celebrations, and Biloxi Beach—without the waves.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the ICU staff at UT Southwestern, Dr. Michael Jesson, and especially Annie, whose care and compassion went above and beyond.

Jim’s legacy is one of service, love, loyalty, and laughter. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, White Rock Center of Hope, or a charity of your choice.