I can't believe it's already been 5 years. I will never forget the impact she had on my life.

NEVER FORGOTTEN, ALWAYS A PART OF OUR MEMORIES FOR THE BEAUTIFUL LIFE SHE SHARED WITH HER STUDENTS AND THE IMPACT SHE HAD ON LISA.

Ironically just yesterday I heard someone ask, "if you were in a room full of everyone you've ever met, who would you look for first?" My thoughts went to Angie immediately. I regret not telling her how deeply she affected me, as teenager and well into adulthood. I had a saved document on my computer that I was occasionally editing and updating, and I never got to share those words with her.

I believe though that she knew. She'd ask me questions or give me encouragement that I see now indicated just how much she saw and understood me, the joy and the pain. I wish I could tell her in my own words, but I'm working on accepting that she knew exactly how I felt.

I miss her.

Remembering Angie and how full of life she was. She cetainly had a positive impact on our daughter Lisa Gibson. I know they are both in heaven running play after play for a blessed audience!

Ms Hillman,

It's been two years but it's still tough. Everyday I walk into the acting classroom and I remember your class. Even though it's easier to cope, it's never easier missing an amazing teacher like you. Thank you for everything you did for us.

Barb and John our thoughts are with you especially today. Angie and Lisa are continuing to celebrate in heaven and are preparing for a great play with all of us in mind when we finally join them. Such bright stars! Such loving daughters.

Love to you,
Valerie and Jim Gibson

Dear Ms. Hillman,

Years have passed and yet your impact on my life hasn't faded one bit. You helped me with everything and always made sure you had my best interest at heart. You taught with passion, integrity, and kindness- something I have yet to seen anyone else replicate. You were my rock throughout high school- and now here I am almost two years later living the life that I dreamed of during high school. I would not have been able to do it without you. You helped shape who I am and for that I could never be more thankful. I miss walking into acting every morning and greeting you. I miss being able to talk about the craziest things. I miss trying your weird foods. I miss you. But I know that you are still here. Yes, the curtains may have closed, but as every actor says- 'the show must go on'. That couldn't be more true in your case. You have impacted so many people, changed so many lives, our stories have changed for the better because of you. Thank you so much. 

Love, Connor Currie (Class of 2022)

It seems like yesterday when Angie walked into my classroom.  It started a friendship that I cherish everyday.  She was respectful, bright, eager and had a great sense of humor.  I was so pleased when she went on to teaching drama.  She was loved, dedicated and so incredible in her work.  Her plays were professional and her personality was infectious.  I miss her everytime I think about our great times together.   I know hard this is for the family.  I only wish them love and peace.  They raised a wonderful loving daughter.

I love you  and miss you my "Minnie"
Mr. S

Consistently I would hurriedly roam into a favorite class of mine led by her. After several times of doing this, she purchased me a phone to wake me. No other teacher in my life made me feel special like she did. I never got to tell her how wonderful she was to me. Perhaps one day in heaven.

I am deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of your dear daughter, Angie.     As I recall, she was an excellent student, talented and beautiful.    Barbara and John, please accept my deepest sympathy in your loss.     God’s special blessing on your whole family.
     

Man so many memories ms hillman its crazy I remember you calling yourself a woprah and I laughed histerically I remember our last conversation was at the protest and how proud you was of me that I helped put together a huge thing like that I cherish every moment with you love you and miss you 

     I am one of the very many, one of the very lucky people touched by this beautiful person: so much love centered around Angela Hillman.
     The fondest and most meaningful moments of my high school experience were in Franklin's theater and in Ms. Hillman's classroom.  She made extra parts in productions so that people like me could have the theater experience.  It seemed she made everyone feel noticed--feel special.  She did for me.  She had time for everyone.
   It's hard to believe that one person could put so much good in the world, and now it falls upon us, if we would love her and honor her, to sustain her movement of compassion, of kindness and of love.  I cherish the brief contact that our lives had, and my sincerest condolences are for the Hillman family. 

I remember when I was really sad and new to capa I messed up on a performance and she made me feel better she was such a nice person I don’t go to church hill anymore but I just found out from a friend she will be truly missed ❤️ I send my condolences to her family and friends 🙏🙏


I first met Angie's mom, Barb while a student at Franklin HS in 1991. I can remember during that time she talked about her family, some of whom I would meet almost 30 years later when my daughter joined CAPA. After having met John, it is easy to see how together; they could have raised a passionate, loving, and prolifically talented woman such as Angie. Over the last four years, I enjoyed seeing her work with the CAPA students manifest into truly great productions, how their talents improved from year to year, and the enthusiasm they put into everything they did. Many of these young people will realize for years to come, the ways she impacted their lives. My heart aches for John and Barbara, the Hillman family, and everyone else who is struggling with this incredible loss. I want to thank her and all the good teachers trying to make a difference, you are.

Angie was my drama teacher in high school while teaching at Franklin 04-07. I had a highly turbulent abusive home life and Angie was truly one of the few people to cross my young life who selflessly persisted in trying to support me. She was warm, invested, concerned and embracing. I had recently spoken with her at my restaraunt in Northville months ago. I'm truly terribly sorry to hear of her loss; I'd love to come to any service that may be held. She never left my heart as an example of hope. <3

Angela was one of my students in Biology at Churchill High School during one of my later years of teaching.  Some students and name  one always remembers and Angie was one of them. She always brightened my day, came to class with a smile, and I always appreciated her  kindness.  I was so happy when I heard she was going into teaching, because I knew she would radiate that same joy and compassion to to her students that she exhibited in my class.  I am so sorry to hear of her death, and pray for comfort to her family.  I know of the sadness because two years ago we lost a son about her age.  He was a pastor, and  like Angie it seems they were taken from us just when they were doing so much good.  Again our prayers of comfort to Angie's family

Ms. Hillman's sparkly personality, contagious optimism, and unrivaled passion for inspiring and leading young people will never be forgotten. She wrote her indelible signature on the minds and hearts of countless students and educators. May the Lord welcome Ms. Angie Hillman into His loving embrace, comfort and heal her family, and give the LPS community strength during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ms. Hillman. Thank you for sharing your gifts with so many!

Ms. Hillman,

It still doesn't feel real that you are gone. I would not be the person I am today without your love and guidance. You took me in as a stressed out freshman worried about every single thing, especially history test, and calmed me down with encouraging words, hugs, and lots and lots of love beads. You made CAPA such a supportive and loving place that it felt, and still feels like second family. Your personality lit up a room and your love for others reached out far beyond the classroom. Oh what I would give to hear you say "Cathy" in your own special way just one more time and to dance on the tables in your classroom on November 1st to Christmas music but for now all I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for everything.
-Cate Visscher, Class of 2019

Although I did not know Angie personally, I did work with her sister Amy. Amy often shared such beautiful stories about Angie I felt like I knew her.

Thoughts and prayers to the Hillman family at this difficult time.

Hillman,

We know I’ve never been short of words, but this has me shaken. Your love knew no boundaries. Yes, you were famously know for making stars, your love for drama, and your passion for educating. I had none of that. You were put in my life for other reasons. To save it. For me you were my safe place. No matter what was going on at home, no matter how much trouble I was in at school, and no matter how many potentially disastrous life decisions I was making you never wavered. You never gave up on me. You talked me off the same ledge over and over without a second thought. Because of you, and your amazing mother, I eventually decided to pursue a career in education and I try to “Hillman” every single day. I know I have fixed some broken ones and that is all due to your guidance and love. The world is much dimmer without your shining light.  I hope you are directing a musical with angels in heaven Hillman. Your legacy will live on in everyone you touched. 

Tammy Besco (Kupras) Class of 1999

To the family :  
      Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us everyday. 
       My deepest sympathy for your loss.   
                  Sincerely:  Christine Gutierrez (Mother of a CAPA student)

      

It was a special treat working with Angie at Franklin. The first time I met her was when I went into her classroom to fix her computer and she was standing on a desk teaching. She was funny and kind and very thoughtful. If one of us seemed down, she would be right there with a "Hillmark" card or a kind word.  A light has gone out in our world but shines bright in the next. 

My heart goes out to the Hillman Family.  May the Lord keep you during this difficult time.  Angie and John & Barb are tax clients of mine but they are even so much more.  I always enjoyed the time spent with Angie discussing the up and coming shows she was producing.  Heaven gained an angel and earth has lost a beautiful person.  Her name will live on in the work she has done.

I knew Angie because she was such close friends with my Aunt Margret Latva.   Angie was an amazing teacher and friend. I will always remember Angie for giving me my yearly updates on the best happenings in the theater world. She advised me on my entire 50th birthday trip to New York. She was funny and lovable.  

I was lucky to have shared my time teaching at Franklin along side with Angie.  I was also honored to work with Barb as well. When I think of the Franklin family, I think of them with fondness and love. I will always cherish my time I spent with the Hillman’s. My heart is broken, but I was blessed to have known Angie. Rest In Peace.

Ms. Hillman,

Grief shows itself in different ways. There's anger, sadness, denial, regret, and many other forms that it takes. We often find that our grief is too strong, or that we aren't grieving enough. There's so much that goes into it that we don't fully know how to process it, and blame ourselves if we grieved in a different way from our classmates. I find myself invalidating myself for my amount of grief since I'd barely even known you like the other kids that weren't crying in class on Tuesday. 

I remember when you told me that when it comes to writing, I think too much into it, and it becomes a struggle. It's so much easier to write when you don't know what to say. You write whatever pops in your head and keep that flow going. You have to "trust the process". When we shared our Holocaust monologues, we talked about how upsetting it would be to be in their situations, and we empathized. But now, we're grieving the loss of a family member that we thought we'd never lose. We're feeling all that pain that we put in the characters of our monologues. We now know exactly what people felt back then, and what they felt in our monologues.

I'm taking with me the advice you gave me on writing a monologue and performing. "There's no limits to your writing. You have to be able to finish it." "Speak up." I will forever and always remember that, and I will speak up so even you will be able to hear me from up above, or wherever you are now. We love you, Ms. Hillman. Thank you for everything you've done for us. Your legacy will not die with you. 

I remember going into Capa vocal my freshman year and every time I saw Ms. Hillman she would tell me she needed me in acting to “mold me”. I was always so nervous to go into acting because I never thought I would be good enough to impress her. This year, I finally gave in and decided to double-strand.  Every single project I have done in her class, Ms. Hillman thought it was amazing. I have always struggled with thinking I was good enough, and she made me feel as if I were made of titanium. Every single zoom class we had she went on a rant about how she thought I was just the “image of beauty”. One time she even said I looked like a beautiful 90’s indie girl. The fact that a woman as strong and independent as she was thought that I was beautiful, made me realize I am. I was not as close to her as most, but the fact that she left as I was getting close to her hurts. But I know she would want me to share my gift as an artist and never give up for what I want, no matter how much pain I’m in from her leaving. I’m going to make her proud. 

Ms Hillman, 
All  I can say is thank you and all I want is more time. You made me the person and actor I am today and it pains me so much you won’t get to see me grow even more. There are so many things i’ll never forget like when you would call me sassy or your “fierce girl” or the hundreds of memories we made in class and in all the shows. Thank you for pushing me, you are the reason I will continue to preform. I won’t stop writing or acting, I promise. I wish you could be here to see me and all the seniors graduate because we’ve talked about it forever! But I know you’ll be looking down on me and I will make you proud. I miss you and love  you so so much. - Kayla K (also of course I had to add your favorite picture of us) 

Remember her walking halls with no shoes on as her classes followed behind.  I have no words that could properly express my sorrow for your loss.  Indeed a light has gone out here but shining bright in heaven

My heartfelt condolescences to the Hillman family and friends on the loss of their beautiful daughter, sister, aunt and friend of so, so many.  May's God's abundant peace surround you now and in the days and months to come.  

Debbie Babcock (a fellow member of Barb's BSF group) 

I did not personally know Ms. Hillman because I graduated before she came to CAPA, but I appreciate her deeply for helping the students that came after me have the same opportunities I had.  CAPA  shaped my life for the better, and I a grateful for the impact she had. It's clear from what others have said that she was an amazing woman, and I leave my heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and students. 

-Julie Sieron, class of 2005

Mrs. Hillman
It’s no secret high schoolers are an unstable group of people. I was no exception to that. But still you sat and talked with me time and time again when it seemed as though my world was crumbling. There was seemingly nothing that couldn’t be fixed with a long talk, a good squeeze and a love bead. Thank your for picking me up when I fell down and cheering for me when I needed it the most. It was never a perfect relationship but I cherished every minute I got to spend working along side you. You taught me to not hold back my voice and that sometimes you’ve got to stop watering those dead plants. Thank you for everything. 
Ragan Chick class of 2020

Thank you, Ms. Hillman -- Angie, for carving out a space in which a sullen little wisp of a kid like I was can feel seen, heard, and valued. Thank you for staying friends after graduation, for reaching out on collaborative projects, and for taking such good care of so many people I care so much about. In all my moves across and in and out of the country over the years, I've always kept one battered box full of every locker sign and Hillmark card and cast-signed program and note from every show.

We will miss you for a very long time.

To Angie - You were my longtime singing coach, mentor, and family friend. I grew from a little girl to a young woman in my time with you. You inspired confidence in me, a sense of joy and purpose, and taught me what it meant to care for people. I learned so much more than singing from you. In fact, I don’t even think God really put you in my life specifically for that. You showed me what it meant to be a sister, how to accept rejection and know my own worth, and that a hand-made card is worth a million bucks. I am so glad you came to my wedding 2 years ago and I deeply treasure who you were to me. My heart is broken and I hope to be even a sliver of the person you were. You are now the brightest star in my night sky, there’s no doubt.
-Katie (Schwalm) Grzyb

I was the awkward girl in High School, at least inside my head. My after-school hours were filled with odd jobs I volunteered to do for random teachers. I think... surrounding myself with people older than myself gave me different perspectives on life, and I was constantly searching for wisdom. 

Or, I was searching for a place to fit in and somebody to understand me. In some ways, I still am.
But in the most dire time of my freshman year at Franklin, you gave me a warm smile and a hug that made me feel worth something great. I started frequenting your classroom, even neglecting some of my studies. You always welcomed me without question or scolding, I like to think you knew what I was searching for. Within four years, you became the greatest teacher I've ever known. You were the only teacher that made me feel proud of myself and for that I will be forever grateful.


They say funerals are for the living, to give us time to cope with such a significant loss in our lives. I don't believe I will ever fully recover from this, Angie. However, with every smile I give to a stranger, I hope to pass on a bit of your happiness. With every hug of a loved one, I will share some of your tenderness and compassion. In the words of the great William Shakespeare, “Farewell! God knows when we shall meet again.”

Dear sweet Hillmans, I am so very sorry for the loss of your Angie. Oh the stories I’ve heard. I love that Barb is the costume and quilt queen, and when she’d hit Ang with an all caps ANGELA for questionable online language. John, Mr. Jeeves, Hillman sending flowers and delivering goodies. The Rick Springfield show. And all those awesome Hillman selfies. Mostly I remember her joy in sharing kids stories. I even got to witness the Goodbye Dance one time and realized I was lacking in the auntie dept. She so loved sharing the events: the sports (football, ahh), recitals, arts camps. How I wanted to lurk in the corner during the annual talent show. I don’t know how she did all that and still provided endless love and an amazing art education to thousands of kids, making every one of them feel special. Lastly, one of the best friends we could ever have. I learned so much from and leaned so much on her to know that she had the strength of a giant and a heart of 1000 tinmen. We are lucky. I cherish it as I adored her.  

She sent me a song when I lived overseas, which I heard today
Piece of My Heart, by Kari Noble (could only fit the chorus)
I can hear us laughing
I remember every part
I've got everything we ever did
It's tattooed on my heart
But there's a colder wind coming in
And blowing us apart
Until the summer brings us back,
You know you got a piece of my heart

She sure had one big-ass heart to give all those pieces away. 

So to dear Angelita
The love is there, it always will be
It’s the light I’m struggling with
The dark is deafening and the silence so radiant
Until I see the smile
Always wrapped around a glorious Hillman hug
and sunshine from within
I’ll recover the light by embracing the sunshine

Rest in Peace, you got an A+ in life and I expect the same from beyond
I love you 

To the Hillmans, I love you and I send an abundance light and love. Please let me know if I can do anything. I’m devastated you lost your Angel, but I thank you for her. Peace.

Ms. Hillman you will be missed I loved watching the productions that you had done for the school every year and my family loved watching your students perform on the capa stage.



Ms. Hillman,
Our heart is broken, There are no words to express the pain that we have in our hearts.
I can say that we were very fortunate to have had the opportunity to have met you.
You were an exceptional human being, full of love, happiness and understanding towards all people.
We were able to see all of that reflected in your plays. You touched a lot of hearts and change a lot of lives.
I am very grateful  for all the support that Ms. Hillman gave to my family  and specially to my son Eduardo in those very difficult  times of the illness of my husband. 
I am sure that you are now enjoying the eternal life and sharing all your love and joy in Heaven. Say hello to my husband when you see him.
You will be terrible missed and will live in our hearts forever.

With all our love and respects,

Garibay Family

Ms. Hillman, 

Thank you for always being there when I needed you. I appreciate all of our talks, laughs and most importantly the advice you giving me. You will forever be in my heart and I will miss you. Until we meet again. I love you and Thank you. Forever My Cookie 🤞🏽❤️

Ms. Hillman,

You were the most impactful teacher I have ever had the honor of crossing paths with. Over the last year and a half, you've taught me so much about myself as a person, and as an actor. You gave me a pathway to truly pursue my dream, and even provided stepping stones to achieve it. A performance will never feel the same without you, but I know you will always be watching. Every performance a student or friend of yours puts on, I know you will be there, even if it can no longer be your physical presence.

To my CAPA family, we will make it through this. Our Hillman will never completely disappear, and she will always be with us in the future- in spirit, in nature, in love beads, in everything that makes us think of her. She'd want us to keep striving forward, which is exactly what I intend to do.

Thank you, Ms. Hillman. For everything you've done for me, my classmates and friends, your graduates, your friends... your light will never be forgotten. Your love reaches beyond death, and persists forever, as long as we have you in our memories.

See you again sometime soon, I hope. But for now, rest well.

My heart is broken,upon hearing of the loss of a dear person,!
This young woman attended school with two of my son's.  Always sweet, kind, happy and loving.
When she did her grocery shopping, she would always grace.my register with her  beautiful persona.
Recently, 5-6 years ago, Angie had  
madr  trip to England.  This kind and generous young woman, brought me several lovely gifts, from there. 
I  have been so blessed to have known her.  
I'd also like to say, I ,myself had actually attended Bentley H.S., with her parents.  Who raised a wonderful daughter.
I send LOVE, caring, and prayers to the family of this exceptional and caring gal.
Thank you Barb and John, for bring Angie , into this world.
She will be missed.  With all that's in me,   I want you to know I TRULY CARE!🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏


My last two years at Franklin could be summed up as, “all things Hillman.” Angie was my teacher for Radio & TV, Drama class, and of course Franklin Players. But above all, her and I doing the morning announcements; that few minutes each morning at that tiny desk in the main office. Big dreams occupying such a small space. Her guidance and sometimes tough love set me up to fulfill those big dreams, however brief they lasted. Her advice to go to college instead of trade school so I have “something to fall back on” was wise and prophetic. I don’t know where I’d be today had I charted a different path.

I was blessed to know the Hillmans long before Angie was my teacher, and my heart aches for them today. To Mr. and Mrs. Hillman and the whole family, I pray you are able to find some peace and comfort in due time. My thoughts are also with her current students and the staff at Churchill, as well as the countess alumni who remained close with her throughout the years and are hurting right now over such a huge loss.

Ms. Hillman... thank you for putting smiles on so many faces, and for doing everything out of love. Thank you for helping me find myself, and for being there when I needed someone. When I lost my dog and both of my grandparents in a matter of 30 days, you went out of your way to show me how much you cared. You helped me get through some very dark times. My mom has been taking me to see your shows since I was seven. Through my eyes, you were literally famous. Like I wanted to get your autograph. From then on, I went to all of the CAPA camps and knew I wanted to join when I got into high school. I feel beyond blessed to have been in your class for my freshman & half of sophomore year. This program is the best thing that ever happened to me. You made such a strong impact on so many people’s lives. You went out of your way to make each and every student feel loved. I mean seriously, who else takes a day during quarantine to drive all over livonia to drop off CAPA shirts & hoodies at almost every house, and meet our pets through our windows? There was a day when we were still doing school virtually, and you noticed we looked kinda down. We told you that we felt like there was nothing to look forward to anymore. So you set up a Secret Santa get together with hot chocolate & cookies at the park. You gave us something to look forward to. You showed that you cared about our mental health. I couldn’t have asked for a better acting teacher. But you weren’t just a teacher. You were my friend. You made this program a family. I will hold my love beads close to my heart always. And during every audition, every performance, I will be thinking of you. Because I know you will be there cheering me on.
God took you too soon, but I know you’re putting a wonderful show on up there. Please say hi to my Mimi, Papa, and Maizee for me :)
Fly high... gone but never forgotten. I love and miss you so much. 
Meghan Mastenbrook


Angie, you were such an inspiration to all you came in contact with, whether it was “ your kids” or even the parents. I loved communicating with you through social media and looked forward to a reply from my comments. I especially loved how you held a story in your heart about how my wife would visit you during parent teacher  conferences even though our daughters had long since graduated. Hopefully you can say Hi to my wife in heaven. Love and miss you,Angie .❤️

Ms Hillman - never have I met a woman more compassionate and committed to spreading love throughout the world than you. You changed so many young people's lives by showing us how to love and accept unconditionally. I wish you could know how many of us are heartbroken and mourning the loss of you. Thank you for creating a safe space at Franklin. 

Ms. Hillman
I have been sitting with your loss, with no idea what to even say about you. You were so caring, giving, kind, and wonderful. From the second you met Ms. Hillman, you could see the love she had for her school kids and her family. She truly was a friend. Everytime I needed her she was there, without fail. She reminded me every single day how proud she was, how much she loved me.
I will never forget your love when I was having a rough day or needed a shoulder to cry on. I am so grateful that I had you in my life for all highschool, and I will always keep you near. All the love beads I have will be cherished forever, and I'll use the miracle you gave me as a reminder of your love. 
Losing you has been terrible, you had so much love left to give. I will miss you for the rest of my life, but I will spend each day using you to do the best I can. 

Angie, you were an embodiment of living in peace and in love. 

As a parent, there is no greater joy than when another adult "sees" your kid, lifts them up, and loves them unconditionally. Ms. Hillman has been such a tremendous influence in my daughter's life and always made a point to seek me out at shows to tell me that I was raising "an amazing human." She had a million ways to say you're special, you matter, and you can do it, and always knew exactly who needed to hear it.  I want to thank Mr. and Mrs. Hillman for always being so supportive of the shows and especially for raising an amazing human. Her influence will continue to impact this community forever.

Angie could have conquered the world, but chose to spread love and joy one student at a time as a teacher. In many ways Angie did conquer the world because one by one, those students have continued to spread the love and joy she taught by example around the world, myself included.

Years later I found myself in the far corners of the globe conducting teacher training seminars, workshops, and speaking at international conferences in China, Russia, Mongolia, Cambodia, and Malaysia to name a few referencing how I had a teacher once who became a friend that would accept everyone for who they are, no matter how different they may be. Because to her it didn't matter how awkward, insecure, or troubled they were, she would always see the good in them and thought everyone should be included. It was that passion for inclusion that I tried to spread to the teachers in  far away lands. So now those teacher's who I taught are spreading love, joy, and inclusion to their students because of you Angie. 

One never knows how a few kind words 25+ years ago can have such an impact on anyone, on me. You, along with many others have played an important role in shaping who I am today.  I'm sure a 1000 more could say the same, and I wonder how many 1000's more you would have impacted had God not had other plans for you. Now in heaven you can whisper to millions more spreading love and joy. To be the shining beacon of light that struggling persons need. To be there for them, like you have been for so many others.

Rest up for now Angie. Your work has only begun because now you have the wings of an angel to spread light, joy, and love beads all over the world.

Mr. and Mrs. Hillman, thank you for raising such a caring and compassionate woman. And to the the rest of the Hillman clan, thank you for sharing you sister and Aunt with the rest of us. Know that she made a difference far beyond the scope anyone can even fathom. 

You will be missed far more than you'll ever know. We love you Angie!

I don’t even know where to start. 
Ms. Hillman,
You made me the person I am today and I am forever grateful for you. We had so many amazing memories together working on shows and in class. You took me under your wing and taught me so many things about life and about being a person. I always loved you little inside jokes we had over the headset. (Praying to all of the Jesus’s). Or hearing you yell my name across the auditorium. There are so many other memories I could share. You were the light. Thank you Ms. Hillman Thank you from the bottom of my heart -
Baylee Wilkinson class of 2019

Well, I was a Freshman with Amy Hillman ( @ the time) at CHS when Angie was a Senior.  I remember watching Angie perform along with James B. And John H.  They were all so inspiring.  I loved the presence that Angie brought to the stage.  I remember going to Choir festival and the Woman' s Chorale got all ones.  Angie had graduated before CAPA began at CHS.  CAPA started my Junior year and I joined the Vocal stran my Senior Year.  I loved it!  

Fast forward 25 years.  My son Nahum went to CAPA Camp.  He loved being on stage and singing.  It was then he met Angie and she encouraged him to tryout when he got to Churchill High School.  It was sooo good to see Angie again.  She poured into her "kids" love of the Performing Arts.  She loved on her CAPA family.  She brought such light and love to CAPA.  The Dream team of Ms. Hillman, Mrs. Fisher and Mrs. K.  We send our love to you both Anne and Wendy.  My son auditioned for the Vocal Stran of CAPA. 
He was in CAPA and attended Churchill from 2017 - 18.  It was a great year.  I know Nahum will be forever changed.  Nahum was so blessed to be apart of CAPA.  Thank you for the inspiration Angie, MS. Hillman.  I am so blessed that our paths crossed over the years.  May we all carry what she gave so freely: love, kindness and inspriation.  To her family thank you for sharing her with us.  To all the current CAPA family know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all and the theater community here in Colorado Springs feels the loss of a Jem and beacon of hope that Angie was...much love to you all!  Rest in peace Angie.
Christa (Yerger) Young

Ms. Hillman, 
I don’t even know where to begin. Favorite memory? There are so many. I’ll try and go through some of them. 
One of the first would be when you looked me in the eyes and told me I had a gift. And that you were proud of me. 
Before that moment, I had never really been told that. Even after I graduated when I came to visit you’d always ask if I was writing, and then preceded to give me another journal. I loved it each time. 
I’ll never forget in 2018 I was in the darkest place I had ever been in. You invited me to go to Murder Mystery and be with you and when I came... I was filled with love. That was what you created in CAPA: Love. Light. Happiness. Being with the CAPA kids, your family, and you made me feel at home again. I’ll forever be thankful for that home you gave us. 
Also, thank you for taking me to New York and creating a wonderful trip for us. Between seeing my first show on Broadway, walking through Times Square, and just getting to explore the city with my people was... beautiful. I’m so thankful. 
You named my School of Rock character after you. After the cast list went up you  told me and I smiled. I’d never been so proud to play a character in my life: “Angela Marie.” 
My last show in CAPA, Into the Woods, my job as one of the student directors was doing sound, so I got to sit by you during each show. You looked at me during the last performance of “No One is Alone” and grabbed my hand. I cried with you. You always reminded me I wasn’t alone— No one is alone. 
Oh, and we can’t forget the chin hair. Hilarious. 

I love you so much. I could write a book about how much you impacted my life and what you mean to me, but I’d run out of pages. You are such a light. I’ll always write. I’ll always love. Forever grateful. 
(This picture is one of our favs... we love Beauty Cam). 

To the Hillmans... I love you. Hillman is such a light and so are all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you. ❤️  
-Evie, Class of 2017 

One of my greatest memories with Ms. Hillman was during my audition for CMU’s acting program. I was so scared and thought I messed up so many times, but she made sure I was okay and checked up on me periodically throughout the day. When I told her I was awful at the audition she told me that was impossible. Her heart was so big and she always made sure to remind me of my worth when I needed it. I love her and will never stop loving her.

 Angela Hillman was not just simply a teacher;  she was a shoulder to lean on, to some a second mom, a friend, and your biggest supporter. She impacted so many students lives over the years, including mine. My time in CAPA would not have been the same had she not been apart of it. I'm so grateful for all of the shows I was able to be apart of hers whether that meant on stage performing, or back stage doing tech or being her right hand student assistant director. Some of my best memories were made with Ms. Hillman and I will never forget them. Her theatre classes made it worth showing up to school everyday and she consistently pushed her students and opened up creativity we didn’t know we had. She will be greatly missed and CAPA will not be the same without her. 

Mr. and Mrs. Hillman, I cannot even begin to imagine going through something like this. Please know that your daughter has left a last imprint on so many of us and changed us for the better. She taught us so much on stage and off and we'll cary those life lessons with us always. Sending all of my love to you both.

Miss Hillman helped all 3 of my kids graduate from Frankin high school she was the best. Never met a teacher that cared about her students was much as she did. God Bless 🙏

Mr. and Mrs. Hillman and Family,
Thank you. Thank you for raising such a kind, loving, intelligent, strong, beautiful woman. Thank you for sharing her with the world. I am endlessly grateful for every day that my children got to spend with your daughter.  She was a beacon of light and love, and a huge positive force in my family's life.  In the short time that my family and I were blessed to know her she became a very important part of our lives, and she'll live in our hearts forever. Please know that you have our love and our deepest sympathies.  May peace find you.

I still remember how impressed I was when I first met you as a substitute teacher at Ladywood, I thought you were the coolest sub ever! But when I transferred to Franklin, that’s when I truly realized how fortunate I was to have you as a teacher. I took Radio and TV class three times and loved it every time. Then as soon as Drama was offered, I also took that class as many times as they would let me. You did such an incredible job bringing out the talent and creativity in each individual and letting everyone shine. 

But as great as your classes were, it was being a part of Franklin Players after school that truly brought joy to my life. Everyone was welcome and you put so much of your heart into every performance. You gave so much of yourself to every student, and helped us to see what theatre could be, and what WE could be.

Ten years ago when I took over the helm of Franklin Players, I was so incredibly nervous. I just wanted to make you proud of me. I hope I did. I cherish all the time that we spent during those years, sharing resources, swapping props and costumes, and bouncing ideas off each other. 

I am so blessed to have had you in my life as a teacher, an inspiration, a mentor, a colleague, and most importantly a friend. I try every day to live up to the example you set, and I will miss you terribly. You will always be a part of me.
Love, 
Colleen

It was through Angie that the Churchill Drama Club members from the 1970s were able to reach our beloved theater teacher.  Through  those emails, I could tell she was an especially dedicated teacher, one of those special people that made drama club and theater classes so impactful on students far beyond graduation.    The Harlequins of the 70s & 80s send our sympathies to her family and the Churchill HS community for this sad loss.

From the first time you ambushed me with a hug, I knew our friendship was meant to be.  You taught me so much about living and loving outloud. You helped me through what I thought were the worst days of my life (losing you is so much worse). You always worried about me caring too much for others and not enough for myself.  
I love you my friend. And I don’t know how to do this without my FaceTime pal and rock. I know your spirit is here and that you will always be with me.  I promise to honor your life and legacy as much as I can.  “Because I knew you, I have been changed for good”

Angie, what I would give to hear you say “I’m coming in my Kelly” and be hugged by you one last time.   Rest easy my beautiful eternal friend. 

Ms. Hillman,
I will always be your forever Mary Lennox. You saw the best in me when I couldn’t even look at myself. You were the brightest part of a very dim high school experience. Your wisdom and spirit always resonated with your students. You were our comfort, our home. A world without you is a world I never imagined possible. It isn’t fair. I’m not sure if I’ll ever be able to come to terms with this, but I have to trust the process, as you say. You helped raise me. I would not be nearly as strong as I am today if I hadn’t met you. I am so incredibly thankful to have had you in my life. You were my favorite part of every day. My biggest mentor and friend, I love you so. I will miss you forever and hold you close to my heart at all times. And don’t worry, I’ll make sure to eat a cupcake every now and then. 

I have never met someone as loving as Ms.Hillman. I am a freshman in CAPA, and I was close with Ms.Hillman. She inspired me and encouraged me to keep going. She was always thinking of others. During clue, my clothing order got messed up and I said that was okay. But she insisted that I have her clue sweatshirt. An action that little meant so much to me. I finally felt like I belonged somewhere, and she made me feel special, talented, and capable. She saw something in me that I never saw in myself. She was someone I knew I could go to for support, comfort, and love. If it wasn't for her, I would never have found my place and met so many amazing friends. My deepest condolences to the Hillman family. 

I’m a freshman in CAPA, so I didn’t get to know Ms. Hillman very long, but she always felt safe. comforting. She was my sixth hour, and I was usually tired going into her class but always got a burst of energy from it. Around this time last year, it was unclear if I could go to CAPA because my family wasn’t sure; but Ms. Hillman helped convince my parents to let me join and it’s been the best thing I’ve ever done. I am grateful to know her, and I wish I could’ve gotten to know her better.  My love to all of you 

Ms Hillman,

Hillman, Hillman, Hillman. What do I say about someone like you? Where do I begin to describe someone that changed the world as much as you did?

I'll start with some memories:

First:
My audition for CAPA Acting. I was terrible- my poorly chosen monologue was only saved by my even worse performance. It sounded like I was reading from an essay. The first time I read it through, you looked at me and smiled and said, "I like what you did there- now, I want you to try it again, this time with this in mind...". We ran through that process at least six times, and each time you gave me something else to think about as I performed. After the final time, you looked up at me and smiled before saying, "Kaytlin, I knew you had it in you." I was a bit worried that you had misplaced your faith, but I went along with it, because CAPA was my dream.

Last:
Thursday afternoon, January 28th. I walked into your class early because my biology teacher(we're not going to name names) had let me out early, again. When Eden and I told you what had happened, you rolled your eyes- we'd already told you about his lack of timeliness before, and you were as fed up as we were. More people started trickling in to class, and when everyone was there, I told you a joke that I'd thought of on the bus that morning. Mr and Mrs Hillman, you deserve to hear it too-


What do you call a snobby criminal going down some stairs? 

A condescending con descending. 


Ms Hillman chuckled a little before telling me, "Kaytlin, you just made my day." That was the last thing she told me that day.

I am so happy to have been able to know you, Ms Hillman. I love you. I love that you cared about us. I love that you planted something in me, something in all of us- your love and kindness. From this day forward, I will take that great gift that you gave me and give it to everyone I know, because that's what you would have wanted me to do. I can't wait to see what happens. 

And... action.

I know I'm just a freshman, but for the time that I had you as my acting teacher was the best time that I had in school in a long time. I knew instantly that we would have grown very close, and I wished that in a few years, you would see me graduate, and I hope you still will. I will never forget what you've taught me for these short few months. You will be missed. Fly high, and rest in peace. You deserve the best.

Anyone who knew Ms. Hillman knew themselves because she helped them to see the best parts of who they were and who they could be. If not for her, I may not have come out of shell. I would not have found friendship with people very similar to me through theater. 
So many lives on this earth were positively impacted by your very soul. You taught us to think deeply, speak gently, love much, laugh a lot, work hard, give freely, and above all else...be kind.
We will miss you. 

Ms. Hillman truly gave of her heart to those around her. I volunteered with Cooper, the therapy dog, and she always had a kind word and a smile. She understood the concept of our volunteer program, embraced it and encouraged her students to spend a few minutes with Cooper as he made smiles and relieved stress. I was fortunate to attend a few of the dept productions. They were amazing. I could tell how much she gave to the students and how much they learned from her both in the performing arts and about life. I consider myself fortunate to have interacted with her for several years at CHS. She will live in the hearts of her family, friends and students forever.

Angie and I met our senior year at Churchill (I came from Bentley, newly closed), but my dad had bought cars for many years from Mr. Hillman at Bill Brown Ford. We shared Choir and musicals (and she never forgave me for snatching off her wig after Guys and Dolls;). Freshman year at CMU we roomed in Beddow Hall, with Kelley and Tami...SO many memories made. The next year I moved down the hall, but she remained my guardian angel, and thankfully approved of my new boyfriend, now husband of almost 30 years. She was one of my bridesmaids, and was one of my first visitors after our first son was born. Years past, but a few years ago we thankfully reconneccted. She met that same baby, 25 years later, and then laughed when my daughter arrived, saying she was a mini-me. I wish there were more dates, but the texts and shared memories are precious. She touched so many lives, and was a light to all. We talked religion, mine more than hers, but her search for peace was my greatest wish. I know that God opened his arms to say well done, for all the hearts she cared for and comforted. She loved as we all should, and I promise to carry on her work, until we meet again. I love you, dear friend, as does Erik. He thinks of you in all seasons, and takes care of me as you would.

Oh Ms Hillman, you were the most wonderful person on this earth. I couldn’t thank you enough for all of your love , support, and advise. I’m not sure where I would be today without you. You have changed so many people lives, that’s what you loved to do. We will all carry on your love and peace. 

Mrs Hillman you gained your wings , god took you home ... thank you for being part of the CHS  family and always will be  even if I wasn’t part of CAPA  or seen you around much but I loved how you kept  the dances well organized you will always  be missed and in the bottom of our hearts no one was prepared for all this and we will all miss you even me you are so beautiful R.I.P See you soon

To the  Hillman family:
 I feel blessed to have known Angie and to call her my friend.  As so many others have said, she made everyone feel as if they were the most special person on earth.  She truly had a special gift of understanding people and knowing  how to love others.  I know she learned that from her two amazing parents.  Angie touched so many lives.  I pray that we may all continue her legacy of spreading peace and love to all people.  May God’s love bring you comfort and peace.  Much love to all of you❤️

Terri McMahon  Bennett

John and Barbara

There are no words I can send to ease your pain.  I remember attending the musical where Angie played, I believe, Adalaide---so incredibly talented and so much fun.  She loved you both so much and had a terrific sense of humor---so easy to love her.

Audrey  

Dear Ms.Hillman,
   I just want to thank you for being my school CAPA Director. Even though I wasn’t in CAPA my friends were. They loved you a lot. Thank you for everything you have done for Churchill even  CAPA. To Ms.Hillman family I am so sorry, I know it hard losing someone you love and care about. I wish you give never had to go through this. Ms.Hillman family you are loved by so many people even Ms.Hillman. I send my Condolences  to Ms.Hillman family and her friends and the staff she worked with. We will miss you so much Ms.Hillman. 💕

Angie, Angie, Angie: You were one of my very first roommates at CMU and still we kept in touch to this day! We made some awesome memories that I cherish today and will forever in my heart. Your smile and laugh were always contagious.  I will always continue to see you whenever I see anything regarding the Wizard of Oz. Take care my sweet soul-love you forever. 

My words are so hard to write about Angie because it is hard to accept she’s gone. How she helped to shape not only my experience in high school, but even life after, was something you’d never expect to take away from a teacher. She always strived to impact people in meaningful ways, and it’s clear that her impact on so many in this world was abundant through all the words I’ve been reading of those who knew her. It’s amazing to see. 

In a room with or without students she was a beacon of light. Many times we would lean on each other in times of distress, excitement, or laughter. Angie was a mentor, friend, and inspiration to me. She always chose kindness and acceptance over hate and dismissiveness, and was a true inspiration to everyone. I only wish I had connected with her more in recent years, as it’s only when you lose someone who was so impactful to you that you really take the time to say thank you and show that person how much they mean to you. I will leave you with Angie’s words from a “Hillmark” she made me in 2008 during my senior year at Franklin that’s centered around our time hosting the morning announcements together (which she penned “WWAH Radio”, or Will Woodington/Angie Hillman Radio):

“You complete me. And now that you are gone, I’m only half a person. So thanks a lot..”

I love you Hillman. You have gone far too soon, but the impact you made on everyone will live on for years. 


Dear Angie, 
I never met anyone quite like you. You held this incredible energy, this passion and you lived life fiercely. Your light touched everyone you met and those who didn’t know you, certainly heard of you. I have loved your mom for many years and was honored to work with her. I also knew your dad for many years. You were the best parts of Barb and John. Thank you for being such a wonderful daughter, sister, aunt and momma to your fur baby . Thank you for giving your love to thousands of kids, for showing too many what family means, thank you for taking care of all our Emerson kids, thank you for being such a good friend to Ann, and thank you for being my friend. Rest In Peace dear Angie.

Oh Ms Hillman, how I loved you.... 

From the very beginning you believed in me..You were always there to comfort me. I remember the first day you taught at Churchill and called yourself “Woprah” ( White Oprah). I knew then you were special, and I ran home to tell my mother how excited I was to have you as a teacher. 

I will always cherish our scandal debates. You were  “Team Jake” and tried to convince me that Fitz was a bad person for Olivia. I remember  the little white pot you had in your classroom and the variety of teas you loved. I remember our love for Maya Angelou and you being the reason I started writing poetry. 

Most of all, I remember your hugs. You gave  the best hugs!  I wasn’t a singer and was terrified, but you let me come to you during lunch and practice Hairspray songs.  You would wrap your arms around me and rock with me to “I Know Where I’ve Been”. My fears would fade away in your embrace. I truly miss them.

To have one last hug. One last phone call. One last smile... 

Mr. and Mrs. Hillman... I love you and I am here with you. 

May her light shine forever and ever...

One of my favorite memories of Ms. Hillman was when our class had a Thanksgiving party senior year. I sat next to her and I was on my phone and she said “VALARIE! Get off your phone we are having family time!” It made me laugh so hard. One special memory I had with her was that she announced my name at graduation. I was so excited! I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else to announce my name. 

If it wasn’t for Ms. Hillman, My love for acting wouldn’t be as strong as it is. She always taught us to be positive and be a light in this dark, dark world. Thank you Ms. Hillman for always believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself. I love you always and forever. 

Angie, 
I am so fortunate that I taught beside you.  You believed in me just like you did everyone you met. I rose up to be the person and teacher you knew I could be. You allowed me to truly embrace the love of being a teacher and being in students lives. You were a light unto this world. You were a gift. You left a desire in me to be better,  do better. Think faster! I will try not to U of M it too much. My go to now will be “What would Angie do?”I wish I could get one more hug from you, just pulled into you. Hear you say “Wendalla” again. I love you. I will live In The light. I will love fiercely and without abandon anyone entrusted to be a student in my world or really anyone in my life. I love you more than you will ever know. Thank you for being you. Thank you for making this world a better place. Until we meet again soul sister. 

Ms. Hillman touched and changed so many lives, she was an Angel long before she left this world.  Her kindness was infectious, her personality larger than life! She will forever be the type of person I will aspire to be like, but will fall short, because she was truly one of a kind! 

She will live on through all who knew her, because you couldn’t meet Angie Hillman and not be forever changed for the better.

With love and condolences,
CJ Helwig Karow 
FHS Class of 1999

I have so many memories of this outstanding, artistic, loving, power-house of a person. She guided so many students to reach their fullest potential. She pushed her students to achieve the unthinkable. The memory that has been popping into my head recently is the day she called me screaming from joy that i got to work along side her and Mrs. Fisher and Mrs. K. She believed in me and pushed me into situations where I thought I would fail, but she made sure I succeeded. We were partners in crime. But most importantly...she taught me how to teach people to love the arts. 

To the family.... I love you all with every fiber of my being. You all have been there since day one. I love you. I love you. I love you. I pray that i am half the person she is. And I know that her light and her power and her strength came from all of you and lives in every one she interacted with. 

Thank you for being an inspiration and cheerleader to us all. Words cannot express my gratitude and love. Thank you for noticing me and helping me change my life. 

How do I narrow down 36+ years of memories?  From high school, to Houghton Lake, to college, to adulthood, to family tragedies, to health crisis... it all comes back to one thing: unconditional love and friendship.  Angie was always there for me and I was always there for her and that’s all anyone can ever ask.  With Angie, and the whole Hillman family... every interaction was filled with warmth.  Every hug was “real” and a hug that you wished would never end.  Just genuine, pure love.  Angie has taken a piece of my heart with her and left a light in my soul that will never burn out.  I have learned so much from her and I can only hope to continue to live the life she would be proud of.  She kept me strong through my cancer battle and I will miss her endless support, her little texts and her thoughtful gifts and “Hillmark” cards.  I will continue to fight as I know she would want me to, but Heaven is not such a scary thought knowing my parents are there and now my best friend is too.  The sun was blinding on Friday and now that I know why, I look forward to her light shining down and will soak it in.  Angie was a gift from God and now she is safely in His arms.  Until we meet again my friend...I love you with all my heart.  

Hillman Family,
Thank you, forever, for so graciously sharing your sister/daughter/auntie/non-furry mommy with us. As a former student and Franklin Player, I've not only experienced but seen the absolutely amazing impact she has had on everyone. I hope your absolute heartbreak can be softened, even the slightest, by knowing how much she loved and was loved. 

Angie Hillman was an amazing inspiration and light. In high school she brought me out of my shell and made sure I was on her stage before I graduated. I’m so grateful and thankful to her for that. 
Even the years after high school, visiting or just keeping in touch through family events or Facebook- I never wanted to disappoint her. I always wanted to make her proud. 
My thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, past and current students who were able to have their lives touched by so much love and passion for life. 
Until we meet again ❤️

Angie was my sister I never had.  I feel so lucky to have had her by my side since 1998.   Hillmans you are all so amazing .  You all love  hard and love big.  That showed in everything Angie touched.  I don’t know that I will ever be the same.  The pain is immense but I do know this.  She made me a better teacher and a better person.  Everything I do, especially now, I think what would Angie do.  I promise her and you that I will keep her legacy of love and kindness alive .  Thank you for sharing your amazing daughter sister, and aunt with me.   

Angela Hillman gave me my voice. Before I met Ms. Hillman I was a shy and quite person. I never seen myself as a leader. Until I met Ms. Hillman. She lit this fire within me every day I saw her every year that passed it grew stronger and stronger. I have her to thank for finding my voice and teaching me how to use it. She set me up for my future, she helped me pick my path in life. She is my mentor, my friend, my director, my second mother, and now my guardian angel. I will miss her every day. I will continue to keep my flame lit. I only hope I can be half of the woman she was. I’m sending all my love and my prayers to her family and friends. I will always remember her in her best. Smiling, laughing, and singing. Thank you for everything you have done Ms. Hillman. Until we meet again. Forever yours. Alexis, your calm in the storm. 

Dear Ms Hillman,

I'll never understand bad things happen to good people. Maybe it's not up to us to understand. But for some reason you were taken from us the other day and I'll never understand why. And that's the worst part when someone dies suddenly. You never understand why. The unspoken words, the unwritten texts and emails, all suddenly haunt you in a "but wait". There's no real closure, because there was no real goodbye. And with limits on gatherings we can't even gather to grieve, support, and love each other the way you would have wanted.

 I walked through your classroom today and saw all the unfinished notes, plans, papers, and work. Things that for the most part will remain unfinished. And I think that's the worst part. When someone is suddenly ripped from your life you're left with all these loose ends that you don't even know where to begin tying up. And that person is just gone. Period. Finite. No second chances, and usually a handful or regrets. 

Your kids. They're hurting right now like the rest of us. To so many of them you were a leader, a mentor, a teacher, and a second mom. They're going through something unimaginable, but I know they'll make it through because they are your kids. Bad things happen. But you taught me that those bad things don't define us. That through the darkness there is always light and love. A bad thing happened Ms Hillman. And we will try to navigate through this with light and love just like you did every day. 

I hope you're able to rest easy. Even though I know that you're yelling at whoever is in charge that you have a rehearsal to be at and things to do. I hope that wherever you are, you're able to find love and light and peace. You have touched hundreds of people, and we will pick up where you left off and continue your legacy of light and love. 

We love you. We miss you. And we will always cherish you. 

So for the last time, quiet please...and cue. 

My voice coach, wedding singer, and friend. An amazing human that made you feel like you were the most important person in her life. I treasure the words of my beautiful wedding singer that she beautifully wrote out for us ❤️

OBITUARY

Angela "Angie" Hillman

March 7, 1969 – January 29, 2021

Harry J Will Funeral Homes

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