Herbert Andre Hilliard, 92, of Washington, D.C.

Obituary

In Loving Memory of Herbert Andre Hilliard

Herbert Andre Hilliard was born on August 6, 1932, in Holly Hill, Orangeburg County, South Carolina, to Jesse and Cora Lee Hilliard. Upon his birth, Herbert had an illness that required supportive nurturing, which he received through his parents and homemade wholesome remedies and care from his beloved grandmother, Mrs. Fannie. As a result, this familial care helped him to heal and thrive with a long and robust life.

In 1941, his father, Jesse, decided to join the Great Migration to the North. The family of eight (Dad, Mom, Jesse, Jr., Herbert, Hilda, Fannie, Corrine, and Carlyle) made their home in Washington, DC, in pursuit of greater mobility and opportunities. Their family was completed the birth of Elizabeth in 1944.

Herbert attended the District of Columbia public schools, graduating from Armstrong High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Korean War. During his military service, he rose to the rank of Corporal, earning training and honors in leadership. In 1954, he received an honorable discharge.

After his military service, Herbert aspired to teach. Yet, he decided to work at District Photo alongside his eldest brother, Jesse Jr., where he developed his passion for photography, which was part of his high school tutelage.

In 1955, Herbert met and married Lou Queen Hillard of Santee, SC, from their union three daughters were born: Sharon, Karen, and Kimberly. Although their marriage formally ended, Herbert and Queen remained best friends and supported their family legacy throughout his God-given lifetime.

He furthered his long-standing working career with the District of Columbia government and earned his full federal retirement in his fifties as a supervisor at DC General Hospital. This early retirement allowed him to continue another career track as a well-sought-after tax accountant, as well as enjoying his other favorite pastimes, which were, actively engaging with and enjoying family, listening to jazz and gospel genres, completing complex crossword puzzles, exploring and supporting local, national, and global politics, viewing the news and sports, being a faithful Christian steward, and a steadfast Washington Commanders fan.

As noted, Herbert's two life constants were his unwavering faith in God and his deep love for his family.

Herbert gave his life to Christ, and as an active and longstanding member of Enon Baptist Church, he earned a degree from Columbia Bible College in the 1990s and faithfully participated in Sunday School weekly by phone when he could no longer physically attend in person. He demonstrated his love of studying God's word through his actions and sharing learned teachings with others.

Herbert relished his role as a son, brother, father, "Papa" to his grandchildren, and "Uncle Herb" to his nieces and nephews. He was a mentor and father figure to countless individuals, with ready wise words and constant ongoing support.

Herbert peacefully transitioned to eternal life on Friday, December 27, 2024, at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, DC.

Preceding Herbert in death are his parents, Jesse and Cora Lee Hilliard; his brother, Jesse Jr.; and his sisters, Hilda and Fannie. He leaves behind cherished memories with his daughters: Sharon Hilliard of Upper Marlboro, MD, Karen Jackson (Eric) of New Orleans, LA, and Kimberly Hilliard of Jackson, MS; his grandchildren, Nia Jackson and Jelani Jackson (Stacey); his sisters, Corrine Rogers of Washington, DC, and Elizabeth Fitzpatrick of Silver Spring, MD; his brother, Carlyle Hilliard (Flora) of Washington, DC; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Herbert's Christian faith, family, and service legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

The family welcomes friends to attend his service at his home church, Enon Baptist Church, 5200 Temple Hills Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Viewing, 9:00 a.m. until time of Service, 10:00 a.m.  Interment, 2:00 p.m. Quantico National Cemetery, 18424 Joplin Road, Triangle, VA 22172.  In lieu of flowers, please give a love offering in his memory to his home church through Zelle; Enon Baptist Church (703) 855-8617 or by mail.