Born on October 20, 1953, in Dingras, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. At a young age, Hillie embarked on a journey with his mother and brother to join his father, who worked in the sugarcane plantations of beautiful Kaumakani, Kauai. He graduated from Waimea High School, Class of 1973, and pursued an Automotive Degree from Hawaii Community College of Hilo, Hawaii. This accomplishment paved the way for his esteemed military career as a Diesel Mechanic in the United States Army, Texas Army National Guard, and Department of Logistics.
In 1976, Hillie's military journey brought him to Fort Hood, Texas, where he started a family with his former spouse, Flordeliza Foronda Gallegos, and blessed with four beautiful children. His dedication to service was marked by numerous accolades, including the Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device, and Iraq Campaign Medal.
Throughout his life, Hillie held many titles, including devoted father, brother, uncle, friend, and "Mahal," but his most cherished role was being a grandfather. Fondly known as Papa Hillie, he found immense joy in spending time with his grandchildren and enjoying retired life with the love of his life of 21 years, Evangeline Thomas.
While Hillie's departure leaves a void in our lives, his impact on our family and community will endure. His unwavering sense of humor brought smiles to many faces, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
Hillie Gallegos is preceded in death by his parents, Elpidio Andam Gallegos and Juanita Sulquiano Andam Gallegos and son, Armand Foronda Gallegos Sr., who is survived by his spouse, Christina Gallegos.
He is survived in legacy by his significant other, Evangeline Thomas; sons, Helizalde (Alice) Gallegos, Ronald (Jeanette) Gallegos; daughter Leezah (Micheal) Frye; brother Rodrigo (Gina) Gallegos; grandchildren Armand Gallegos Jr., Caiden Gallegos, Zoey Rodriguez, Gabriel Gallegos, Jacob Gallegos, Reilynn Gallegos, Boomer Gallegos, Micheal Frye Jr., Leilah Frye, Hannah Frye, Ilana Frye, Alaysia Armstrong, Tyshawn Armstrong, Jamell Austin, Riley Austin, Bryant Austin, and Audriana Allen.
Hillie Gallegos is also survived by numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will cherish his memory dearly.
All who knew and loved him are invited to join in commemorating his remarkable journey.
Visitation: Wednesday, April 24, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, 1615 S Fort Hood St, Killeen, Texas 76542.
Rosary: Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 6:00 PM, 1615 S Fort Hood St, Killeen, Texas 76542.
Celebration of Life Service: Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 12:00 PM at St Joseph Catholic Church, 2903 E Rancier Ave, Killeen, Texas 76543. Hillie will be laid to rest with his beloved son, Armand Gallegos, Sr., at the Killeen City Cemetery, located at 2800 E Rancier Ave, Killeen, Texas.
Rest in peace, dear Hillie. Your spirit lives on in the hearts of those you touched.
If you wish to support the family during this difficult time, contributions can be made to Helizalde Gallegos or Leezah Gallegos Frye, 3708 Peaks Drive, Killeen, TX 76543.
