Jerry Tyrone Hillard

Jerry Tyrone Hillard was born on May 19, 1954, in Compton, California, to Marie and Clarence Hillard. Though California was his birthplace, his heart belonged to Mobile, Alabama, where he was raised among friends who became family. Those formative years remained dear to him throughout his life, and he cherished every opportunity to return home for special occasions and Mardi Gras, reconnecting with the people and places that helped shape him.

In the 1980s, Jerry made his way to the Clear Lake area of Texas. There he put down roots, raised his family, and built a life defined by quiet strength and steadfast responsibility. For nearly four decades (36 years), he devoted himself to Johnson Space Center, serving at the Gilruth Center with the kind of reliability and dedication that left a lasting mark. Everyone who walked through those doors knew Jerry. His presence was unmistakable, his work ethic unwavering, and he was never short on something to say. His quick wit, strong opinions, and colorful conversations made him someone people remembered.

Beyond his working life, Jerry found joy in the simple pleasures that made him who he was. A lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan, he followed his team with unwavering loyalty and enthusiasm. Music was another of his great loves; he took real pride in his record collection. He was especially proud of his Corvette, his dream car, and nothing quite compared to the satisfaction of being behind the wheel. In earlier years, fishing offered him another favorite escape into the outdoors. And anyone who knew Jerry knew he truly loved to eat. He had a deep appreciation for good food and an even greater weakness for dessert; whether it was a home-cooked meal or a sweet treat, Jerry approached the table with pure enjoyment.

Jerry will be remembered in as many ways as there are people who knew him. Some will recall the dependable man who showed up every day at the Gilruth Center. Others will smile at the thought of his Cowboys gear, the carefully kept records, the gleaming Corvette, the trips back to Mobile, a shared meal or dessert, or the ordinary, everyday moments spent in his company.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jessie Hillard; his daughter, Lee Lindsey (Patrick); his sons, Brandon Hillard; Jerald Hillard (Ashley); Jerry Jones (Alisia); and JaMarcus Jones; his siblings, Diane Mack, Shirley Ann Twymon (Charles), Denise Jackson, Darnell Jackson, and Herman Hillard; his grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends who will carry his memory forward.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marie and Clarence Hillard; his sister, Mary Ann Williams; and his brother, James Johnson.

Jerry lived a life that was distinctly his own, a husband, father, grandfather, brother, provider, and hardworking man who spent decades making sure those he loved had what they needed. Like every life, his held both imperfections and meaningful accomplishments. The memories he leaves behind will be held close by all who knew and loved him.

Though his earthly journey has ended, Jerry’s memory will endure through the family he cherished, the friends he kept, and the many lives he touched along the way.