Jesse Eckles Jess Hilliard, Jr.

Jesse E. Hilliard, Jr., 89, passed away on July 15, 2016. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather.

Jesse is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia; son, Michael (Margaret); two grandchildren, Ross (Mary-Milam), and Elizabeth; and sister Jayne. He was preceded in death by his son, Mark, his parents and three siblings: John, William and Jackie.

Jess was born on March 20, 1927 in Winnsboro, Louisiana to Jesse Eckles Hilliard and Ettie Florence Scott. He graduated from Winnsboro High School and went on to join the US Navy where he served in the Pacific. After his service, Hilliard attended Texas A&M and subsequently joined the US Air Force. He retired as a Major after 20 years of service. He relished the opportunities and adventures military life gave him. After retiring, he worked in private industry and spent time volunteering in his community.

A man of strong faith, Jess was dedicated to caring for his family. He looked forward with optimism despite life's great losses and challenges. Jess and his family are grateful to those who helped care for him in his final years: Dr. Karl Hempel and staff, the Nix Hospital staff, Angelica Pinehas, Hilda Ortiz and Sandra Esparza. Motivated by a desire to help others and further education, Jess chose to donate his body to medical science at the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Remember him for his good-nature, wry humor and his kind words to friends and strangers alike. Remember his dedication to family, his integrity and loyalty.

Celebration of the Resurrection

Wednesday, July 20th

1:30 P.M.

Guthrie-Bryant Chapel

First Presbyterian Church

404 N Alamo St.

(210) 226-0215

Rev. Scott Simpson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Presbyterian Church in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, P. O. Box 6106, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, to support scholarships for camps and youth activities or to the charity of your choice.