James “Hugh” Hillhouse Jr. passed on April 16, 2026, at the age of 86. Born August 14, 1939, in Birmingham, AL and made his home in Decatur, Alabama after college.Hugh is survived by his wife, Deborah Gresham Hillhouse; sister, Marjo Gann (Tommy) of Bessemer, AL; brother, Hale Hillhouse of Kingsport, TN; son, James H. Hillhouse III (Laura) of Florence, AL; daughter, Sarah Thornton of Vestavia, AL; step daughters, Amendi Stephens and Annie Harkey of Hoover, AL; 6 grandchildren and 2 step granddaughters; 3 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Marjorie Hillhouse and wife, Alice Hillhouse.
He was a graduate of Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. He worked for 3M for 35 years and left as a site manager. He worked with Daikin America 15 years and retired as Vice President and Plant Manager. He served in many capacities in his community and his church.
Pallbearers will be Raymon Sutton, Frank Edwards, Lee Edwards, Clint Reist, Michael Gentry, and Owen Meadows.
Visitation will be held at First Baptist Church Decatur, 123 Church St NW, Decatur, AL 35601, US, on April 21, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a Funeral Service at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Pastor Blake Kersey and Pastor Buddy Champion will be officiating.
A Committal Service will take place at Roselawn Funeral Home and Cemetery, 709 Memorial Drive SW, Decatur, AL 35601, US, on April 21, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to First Baptist Decatur located at 123 Church St NW Decatur, AL 35601 for facility improvements or the charity of your choice.
