James "Ed" Edward Hilliard

He was preceded in death by his parents, Reis and Jeanne Hilliard. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 62 years; his children: Elizabeth Staten and Will Hilliard (Stacy); grandchildren: Drew Staten (Vicki), Mason Staten and Caroline Hilliard; great granddaughter: Joelle Staten.

Ed was proud to be one of the first four graduates of Webb School of Knoxville and he then graduated from Duke University, where he met and married the love of his life. He had a long and successful career in the construction lumber industry. Ed was a jack of all trades and was a scratch golfer, award-winning clay shooter, master craftsman, accomplished race car driver, and an excellent bird hunter. He was typically the first to get his limit and if the limit was 15 birds, he was known for only using 17 shells.

Ed was a lifelong member of Saint John’s Cathedral, where he served as an usher, an acolyte and a greeter. He rarely met a stranger and will be greatly missed by many.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 9th at 1:00, 2025 at St. John’s Cathedral with a reception following immediately after the service in the Great Hall.