Brian Patrick Hilliard

Brian Patrick Hilliard, 49, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026. Born September 6, 1976, Brian lived in Bradenton, Florida for two and a half years after spending most of his life in northern New Jersey. He will be remembered with deep love for his unwavering faith, tireless work ethic, and remarkable dedication and discipline. These qualities touched his family, his friendships, and every community he was part of.

Brian graduated from Rutherford High School in Rutherford, NJ, in 1994 and went on to Rider University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1998.

Track and Field was always a huge part of Brian’s life and something he was passionate about from his high school years through college. It’s also a gift that runs in the Hilliard family. Brian was an accomplished middle-distance runner, with some pretty incredible performances during his time at Rutherford.

In 1993, Brian ran a 2:02.6 in the 800m at the Bergen County Outdoor Track Championships in Rutherford, NJ. The following year, in 1994, he recorded a 1:26.3 in the 600m, a performance that still appears on Bergen County’s all-time indoor track performance list.

Even more impressive, Brian is one of only three Rutherford athletes to win the Bergen County Outdoor Group 800m title from 1980 to the present day.

For Brian, Track and Field wasn’t just a sport, it was something that stayed with him throughout his life and became part of who he was.

In the spring of 1995, Brian joined Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc., Iota Chapter, where he built lasting bonds and friendships that reflected the brotherhood, loyalty, and connection he carried with him always.

For 25 years, Brian devoted his professional life to helping pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies build electronic quality management systems, strengthen compliance, and operate more effectively. He worked as a senior consultant and later founded Advanced Technologies, LLC, serving as an independent Senior Solutions Architect for companies including Process Stream and IQVIA, supporting large pharma. Known for leading global software implementations, guiding business and system requirements, supporting validation and training, and helping organizations maintain FDA-regulated quality systems. Brian brought discipline, clarity, and a steady sense of responsibility to work that demanded excellence. His early years with Sparta Systems helped shape the foundation of his career. Through it all, Brian’s example was quietly inspirational; he always led with integrity and showed how hard work can uplift teams, strengthen systems, and leave a lasting impact.

Brian’s faith and servant’s heart were especially evident through his service on the board of Adopt One Village. He cared deeply about the mission to improve lives in the villages surrounding Abetifi, Ghana, supporting efforts that brought hope through healthcare, education, and infrastructure. He loved sharing this passion with his daughter Brianna and his brother Jason, who accompanied him on his last mission trip this past July. The time, thoughtfulness, and love Brian poured into his work reflected his deep commitment to others, and his impact will continue to be felt by the people and communities he strengthened and inspired.

Brian also poured the same dedication and heart into coaching. As Head Cross Country Track and Field Coach at Bradenton Christian School, he encouraged student-athletes, led by example, and left a lasting impact on the lives of those he coached. In just two years, he helped guide the program to a State Championship, and he was incredibly proud of his team and all they accomplished. Go PANTHERS!!!

Anyone who met Brian knew he was passionate about his fitness and daily gym routine (GTL) ... the gym was his sanctuary. Beyond his love for fitness, he loved sports and was a loyal fan of the Jets, Yankees, and Knicks. He loved music of all genres, with a strong connection to old school hip hop. He also loved vintage cars, along with his Harley Davidson Motorcycle and their clothing (sleeveless of course). Through every interest and every season, Brian’s loyalty and generosity stood out, and he touched many with his kindness.

Brian is survived by his wife of almost 18 years, Liana Gioconda Arias-Hilliard; his children, Brianna Rosa Hilliard (13) and Valentina Rosa Hilliard (9); his mother, Donna Cormier, and his brothers, Jason Williams and Russell Vessillo. Brian was predeceased by his fathers, Howard Leslie Hilliard and Rosario (Rusty) Vessillo. Brian was a devoted husband, a loving father, a loving pet parent, and a loyal friend who built lifelong bonds with his extended circle of friends and brothers. His inspirational presence will be carried forward by all who had the honor of knowing him.

We will celebrate his 50th birthday on Sunday, September 6, 2026, 3:00pm at Grace Community Church, 4080 Lakewood Ranch Blvd North, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240. Repass will be Immediately following the Program at Grace Community Church. At the family's request, we ask that attendees wear casual/colorful clothing for this Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to Adopt One Village.

( https://www.adoptonevillage.org/ ).