David Mark Hillis Sr.

David Mark Hillis Sr., age 79, unexpectedly finished his earthly race on July 24, 2026. Born on February 24, 1947, Mark grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, where he graduated from Kingsbury High School with the Class of 1965. He later attended the University of Tennessee at Martin, studying Mechanical Engineering.

Mark's life was marked by steady purpose and steadfast faith. Drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War, he received basic training with the 101st Airborne (“Screaming Eagles”), the elite air assault division based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. That same resolve carried into his working life: he built a remarkable fifty-year career as a fire sprinkler contractor, spending the last thirty years as the owner of his own company. Through diligence, grit, and a reputation for being exceptionally detailed and consistent, Mark provided well for those he loved, retiring in 2019 with the quiet satisfaction of work faithfully done.

While working in Southeastern Ohio, Mark met Linda. While dating, Mark was drafted into the U.S. Army. They married on September 11, 1968 and lived for a while on base in Memphis, TN. Soon afterward they were stationed in Arlington, Virginia. Their marriage—52 years —was a testament to loyalty and devotion. Together, they raised two children, surrounding their home with love, laughter, and the steady wisdom Mark was known for.

Mark found joy in the simple and the meaningful, and his curiosity never seemed to dim. He loved hunting for Indian artifacts, and he enjoyed hunting and fishing—always drawn to the outdoors and the quiet beauty of nature. He collected coins, paper currency, and antique firearms, and he was a devoted reader with a deep fascination for history and family genealogy. He also enjoyed working jigsaw and word puzzles, and he took pleasure in time spent in the garden, growing flowers and tending what he planted with patient care. An avid University of Tennessee fan, Mark also appreciated life’s everyday comforts—especially a good cup of coffee and desserts shared in good company.

A devout Christian and faithful Bible reader, Mark was very active in the local church throughout his life. He was a former member of Temple Baptist Church, Hermitage Hills Baptist Church, and most recently, Tulip Grove Baptist Church. He served with dedication as a Sunday School teacher, a leader for the Royal Ambassadors, and as a Deacon—roles he carried not for recognition, but from a sincere desire to serve, encourage, and strengthen others. His humor and quick wit often brought warmth to a room, and his steady, resilient spirit offered reassurance in times when it was needed most.

Mark was preceded in death by his father, Billy Bouten Hillis; his mother, Mary Ann Coble Hillis; his brother, Bobby Bouten Hillis; and his wife of 52 years, Linda Lee Hillis. He is survived by his daughter, Lisa Hillis; and his son, David Mark Hillis, Jr. (Kim).

Beloved and deeply cherished, Mark leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, loyalty, and quiet inspiration—an example of a life lived with purpose, wisdom, and a grateful heart.

There will be a Gathering of Family & Friends on Monday, August 3, at Hermitage Funeral Home from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM. A Celebration of Mark's Life will begin at 2:00 PM in the Tulip Grove Chapel at the funeral home. Following the service, Mark will be laid to rest next to his wife in the Masonic Garden at Hermitage Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider a donation in Mark's memory to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (billygraham.org) or The Gideons International (gideons.org/donate). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Hillis family by selecting "Add a Memory" at the bottom of this page.