Margaret Hilzim Reily

She was born August 6, 1929 in Jackson, Mississippi to William Harrington Hilzim and Margaret Atkinson Hilzim, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her brother William Harrington Hilzim Jr., and her sister Catherine Hilzim Perez.

She is survived by her beloved husband Robert “Bob” Howe Dicks Reily, to whom she was married for 69 years. She is also survived by her four children Sean Dicks Reily (Leanne), Kevin Buford Reily (Katie), Torrey Eustis Reily, and James Harrington Reily (Debbie); her grand-children Colin Robert Reily, Paul Silas Reily, William Patrick Reily, Kathleen Rose Reily, Erin Curry Reily, and Ian Harrington Reily; and her great-grandson Harrison Crews Reily.

She attended Louise S. McGehee School, and Newcomb College where she excelled in sculpture under the tutelage of Jules Strupeck, and was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. There she met the love of her life Bob whom she married in 1951. She had a deep love for her family. Always central to her life was her fierce devotion to the well being of Bob, her children and grand-children. She also had a remarkable appreciation and love for nature and animals, especially birds.

The family would like to thank Margaret’s home caregivers of the last few years for all of their good work and friendship: Caroline, Debby, Felicita, Gayle, Karen, Latasha, Lisa, Lorraine, and Mayrie. We would also like to thank her doctors for all of their care and attention: Drs. Miles, Bhansali, and Oleck.

Due to pandemic concerns for Margaret’s surviving husband Bob, the family held a private funeral service and burial on January 5, 2021 with only immediate family members in attendance.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to The Greater New Orleans Foundation. The family invites you to share your thoughts, memories, and condolences online at www.lakelawnmetairie.com.