In Loving Memory of Thomas “Tommy” Lee Hilliard

In Loving Memory of Thomas “Tommy” Lee Hilliard
November 16, 1957 – July 27, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Thomas “Tommy” Lee Hilliard, age 67, of Urbana, Ohio, who departed this life peacefully in the comfort of his home on Sunday, July 27, 2025. His passing marks the end of a well-lived life rooted in family, hard work, integrity, and quiet strength.

Tommy was born on November 16, 1957, in Urbana, Ohio, to Robert and Shirley Hilliard. He was a proud son of Urbana, a place that shaped the man he would become—humble, kind-hearted, and deeply committed to his loved ones and community. He graduated from Urbana High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and discovered his natural knack for fixing things, particularly anything with an engine.

A talented and dependable mechanic, Tommy dedicated most of his working life to turning wrenches and solving problems others couldn’t. He had an incredible mechanical mind and a pair of hands that could repair just about anything. Whether it was under the hood of a car, in a neighbor’s garage, or at a friend’s farm, Tommy was always ready to lend a hand. He never did it for praise or payment—he did it because it was who he was. His work ethic was quiet but unwavering, and his legacy lives on in every engine he brought back to life.

Though known for his mechanical skills, Tommy’s greatest passion was for the people in his life. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His love for family was constant, showing up not only in words but in the countless small acts of service and sacrifice that only those closest to him truly saw. He was the kind of man who showed up early, stayed late, and never asked for recognition.

Tommy loved simple pleasures—a good cup of black coffee, classic country music on the radio, and long drives down quiet country roads. He found joy in fishing trips, backyard barbecues, and cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes. Above all, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren, who brought endless light into his later years. His face would light up with pride when he spoke of them, and he was always ready with a story, a joke, or a piece of advice.

To those who knew him best, Tommy was a steady and calming presence. He didn’t speak often, but when he did, his words carried weight. He believed in doing right by others, keeping your word, and helping where you could. He lived simply, loved deeply, and left a mark on the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Shirley Hilliard, and by his beloved brother, Michael Hilliard. Though the loss is great, the memory of Tommy’s gentle soul will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

He is survived by his children, who were the pride of his life; his cherished grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy; his siblings, extended family, and a wide circle of friends and neighbors who will miss his warm smile and generous heart.

A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held in Urbana in the coming days, where family and friends will gather to honor his memory, share stories, and find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind. Details of the service will be announced soon.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a local charity that supports working families or vocational training programs in Tommy’s honor—causes that reflect the values he lived by.

Thomas “Tommy” Lee Hilliard may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. His was a life well-lived, and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and quiet love that will not be forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace.