Obituary for John M. Hillman Sr.
John M. Hillman Sr., age 79, of Erin, passed away on Sunday, December 4, 2022 at Geisinger Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was born on July 1, 1943 in Corning, the son of the late Francis and Carrie (Copeland) Hillman.
John was a graduate of Corning Free Academy and attended Fredonia University for his undergrad and he received his Master's Degree from Elmira College. John enjoyed fishing with his sons as they were growing up, traveling, especially his trips to Alaska, hunting, and camping. He was a well respected basketball coach and swimming coach in Elmira. John was a history teacher in the Elmira City School District retiring in 1999 following 33 years of service.
John can be remembered by his quick wit, humor and kind personality. To this day, many who were taught by John remember "Mr. Hillman" with kind words, compliments and a smile. John made many unforgettable memories with family and friends throughout his life. For those familiar, he was the co-founder of the never forgotten, always memorable Hagar the Horrible celebration held annually for many years.
He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, John "Jay" M. and Jessica Hillman of Elmira and Frank and Jennifer Hillman of Big Flats, former spouse, Linda M. Hillman of Fairport, grandsons, Colton Hillman, Tristan Hillman, and Gavin Hillman, brother, William (Marlene) Hillman of Campbell, and nieces, nephews, and cousins. John was predeceased by his siblings, Robert (Wanda) Hillman, Thomas (Doris) Hillman, Barbara (Carlton) Fawcett, and Sally (Timothy) Richardson.
Family and friends are invited to gather at Phillips Funeral Home, 17 West Pulteney Street, Corning on Sunday, December 11, 2022 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. A private celebration of John's life will take place at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make donations to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital by going to stjude.org or the Wounded Warrior Project by going to woundedwarriorproject.org.
John was a graduate of Corning Free Academy and attended Fredonia University for his undergrad and he received his Master's Degree from Elmira College. John enjoyed fishing with his sons as they were growing up, traveling, especially his trips to Alaska, hunting, and camping. He was a well respected basketball coach and swimming coach in Elmira. John was a history teacher in the Elmira City School District retiring in 1999 following 33 years of service.
John can be remembered by his quick wit, humor and kind personality. To this day, many who were taught by John remember "Mr. Hillman" with kind words, compliments and a smile. John made many unforgettable memories with family and friends throughout his life. For those familiar, he was the co-founder of the never forgotten, always memorable Hagar the Horrible celebration held annually for many years.
He is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, John "Jay" M. and Jessica Hillman of Elmira and Frank and Jennifer Hillman of Big Flats, former spouse, Linda M. Hillman of Fairport, grandsons, Colton Hillman, Tristan Hillman, and Gavin Hillman, brother, William (Marlene) Hillman of Campbell, and nieces, nephews, and cousins. John was predeceased by his siblings, Robert (Wanda) Hillman, Thomas (Doris) Hillman, Barbara (Carlton) Fawcett, and Sally (Timothy) Richardson.
Family and friends are invited to gather at Phillips Funeral Home, 17 West Pulteney Street, Corning on Sunday, December 11, 2022 from 3:00 to 5:00 pm. A private celebration of John's life will take place at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may make donations to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital by going to stjude.org or the Wounded Warrior Project by going to woundedwarriorproject.org.