Obituaries
Ray L. Hillard, 84
June 12, 2022
It is with profound sadness that we announce that Ray L. Hillard, age 84, passed away on June 12, 2022 at Lancaster General Hospital in Lancaster, PA, comforted by family. Ray was born in Narvon, PA to L. Henry Hillard and Elizabeth M. (Ludwig) Hillard. He was married to Brenda (Sheaffer) Hillard for 59 wonderful years.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters: Melanie (Tim) Reese of Churchville, Md. and Rebecca (Erik) Winstead of Bethleham, PA. He has two granddaughters- Morgan Reese and Taylor Reese, and eight nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his parents and two brother, Lewis and Robert.
Ray was a 1955 graduate of the former Upper Leacock High School. He was an undergraduate at Franklin and Marshall College (1959) and received his Master (1961) and Doctorate (1964) in Chemistry from the University of Delaware.
He was employed for 36 years in the chemical industry in New Jersey. He held numerous positions in research and manufacturing services. He retired in 2000 as the Corporate Director of Environmental Services at Cytec Industries, formerly American Cyanamid. He was the holder of 5 US patents.
Brenda and Ray enjoyed many years of travel. Ray has been to all 50 states and over 20 foreign countries. He enjoyed woodworking and created numerous items for family and for sale in Brenda’s American Craft Shop. He enjoyed hunting in his younger years and took up golf later in life. He had a great appreciation for his golfing companions and their patience and endurance with his golfing skills, which showed little improvements over the years.
Ray was elected for 2 terms to municipal government in Clinton Township, NJ and served 21 years as a member of the municipal planning commission.
He was a fan of the Phillies, Eagles and Lancaster Barnstormers, and a member of the Highland Presbyterian Church.
Ray was a loving and devoted husband and father, forever taking care of his three “girls”. We are eternally grateful to have had this giant of a man in our lives.
At his request all services will be private.
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Condolences to the Family
June 16, 2022
Dear Brenda,
I am so very sorry of Ray’s passing. He was a truly wonderful man. Although I only knew you both through our family connection, it is obvious what a beautiful person he was as a father, grandfather and a husband to all of you. It was such a blessing to have known him and his presence will be deeply missed. My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
Cynthia Reese
June 15, 2022
Hi Brenda, we are very sorry for your loss. You were wonderful Waterford neighbors. What a beautiful life he had. God bless your family, The Oliveri’s (Marc and Maureen)
June 15, 2022
We wish to express condolences to the family of Ray L. Hillard from Mary-Margaret (Overly) Ruth and her brother William Overly.
Mary-Margaret (Mimi) was a high school classmate of Mr. Hillard, and graduated with him in 1955 from Upper Leacock High School. They have remained friends since that time. Her brother, Bill, has known Mr. Hillard for many years.
Again, our sincere condolences at the loss of this wonderful and accomplished man.
Thank you.
Mary-Margaret Ruth
William Overly
June 15, 2022
Dear Brenda: Please accept our warmest wishes for you and your family.
We will miss our favorite neighbor at Warwick Woodlands.
Much Love
Lucy and Larry Spangler
June 15, 2022
Brenda, I am very sorry for your loss. You and your husband were very kind to me when I was your housekeeper. I remember you both fondly. My prayers are with you.
Dolores Walker
June 14, 2022
Dear Brenda, Melanie, Rebecca and all extended family,
John and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ray, a man we both respected, admired, and enjoyed calling our friend. We will remember always his genuine interest in others, his easy laughter, and that wonderful smile. We offer heartfelt condolences and pray the many happy memories stored over a lifetime will ease the pain of loss for all who loved him. Our love,
Nancy & John Poist
