SSG John Emmett Hillhouse

John proudly served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army. Over the course of nine years of military service, he completed two combat tours in Iraq-from November 2005 to November 2006 and again from February 2009 to May 2009. His time in uniform reflected his unwavering commitment to duty and country.

Following his honorable military career, John continued his path of service by joining AmeriCorps as a support services coordinator. In this role, he found a new way to give back to his community and help others navigate challenges with compassion and care. His work was more than a job-it was an extension of the values he held dear.

John was known for his intelligence, quick wit, and infectious sense of humor. He had a unique ability to bring laughter and joy into any room and often left those around him smiling. Whether through a kind gesture or a well-timed joke, John made lasting impressions on everyone he met.

He cherished time spent outdoors and especially valued moments shared with his family. He found great joy in being with his son, Kade, and embraced every opportunity to create memories together. His dedication extended beyond family life into every aspect of his work and relationships-he always went the extra mile for others.

John's selflessness endured even after death; he was an organ donor whose final act continued his lifelong legacy of giving.

He is survived by his loving wife, Tiffany; his son, Kade; his step-daughter, Alanna; and their dog, Ruby. He is also survived by his mother Kathryn (Kay) Poole Garcia and her husband Joe; his sister Leslie Gonzalez and her husband Jose Luis; as well as nephews Isaac and Joshua.

He is further survived by his uncle, John Douglas Hillhouse (Mariana), John's father, stepmother and other siblings.

John was preceded in death by his grandparents, Herschel Byram Poole, Jr., Annamae Watt Poole, Margaret (Daisy) Crandall Hillhouse, and Harry Percy Hillhouse, Jr.

A visitation will be held at Parkway Funeral Home, located at 1161 Highland Colony Pkwy, Ridgeland, MS, 39157, United States. The visitation is scheduled for December 14, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. A memorial service honoring John's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the memorial fund established for his young son, Kade. Donations may be made to an account established at Regions Bank for "Kade E. Hillhouse."

May the memory of John Emmett Hillhouse bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a reminder of a life lived with courage, humor, and heart.