It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved father and granddaddy, Clifton Edward Hilliard on the morning of October 17, 2024 at his son, Randall’s home where he was surrounded by family. Edward was born to Clifton Roy and Nanny Maebelle on February 8, 1932 in Madison County, Alabama. He was the third born of seven children. Like his father, he began working as a farmer, but then moved on to an impressive 42 year career as a machinist at John Blue Company before retiring. Edward went on to have three sons of his own with whom he shared a love of hunting, gardening and fishing, which were his favorite hobbies. He has three grandchildren and four great grandchildren that he loved dearly. And he spent over 20 wonderful years with his soul mate, Ophelia. Edward was always at every family event with a smile and had such a love for his family and wanted us all to know just how much he cared. And had a sense of humor about him, always, even up to his final days and that we will forever miss.
Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Clifton and Nanny Maebelle Hilliard, two sisters, Louise Harper, Carolyn Warren, his brother Robert Hilliard and wife Ophelia Willoughby.
He is survived by his sons Randall Hilliard and Lynn, Gearry Hilliard and Diana, and Gaylon Hilliard and Marlin. His grandchildren Paige Adams and Bodie, Whitney McAnally and Richard and Tyler Hilliard and Hannah. And his four great grandchildren, Sydney, Titus, Eliza and Parker. And his sister Juanita Knox, Barbara Ann Henry and his brother Kenneth Hilliard.
Services will be held at Berryhill Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
Visitation at 11:30 am for family, 12:00 pm for friends and funeral at 2:00 pm.
Burial following at Huntsville Memory Gardens.
Pallbearers are Ricky Knox, Ethan Knox, Jeff Henry, Greg Henry and Richard McAnally.
