William Edwin Hillman Jr.'s Obituary
William Edwin Hillman, Jr., of Maple Shade, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, following a brief illness. Born on June 13, 1947, in Camden, he was a proud lifelong resident of Maple Shade and a graduate of Merchantville High School, Class of 1965.
Known to many as “Bill,” he was a warm, larger than life personality who had a big heart to match. An outgoing man who never met a stranger. With a ready smile and a knack for storytelling, he could always be counted on to share a joke or a tall tale. He had a deep love for the outdoors—especially hunting and fishing—and found joy in cooking meals for family and friends.
Growing up on Bailey Avenue in Maple Shade, Bill built friendships that lasted a lifetime. As a teenager, he found joy in teaching children to ice skate, working as an instructor and mentor. After graduating from high school, he proudly served in the Army Reserves at Fort Dix for several years.
Bill’s dedication to his community led him to a career in law enforcement in his hometown. Later, he continued serving others through his work at Goodwill Industries and as a special needs school bus driver in Mt. Laurel, where he formed lasting bonds with both students and staff.
A man of strong faith, Bill was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. He also belonged to numerous civic organizations over the years and deeply valued the friendships and connections he made throughout his life.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret Leigh Hillman; his daughter, Kristen Hillman (Michael Gilbert); and his stepchildren: Colleen Baum (J. Scott Baum), James Callahan (Colleen), John Callahan, Karen Kirk and Donald Kirk. He was a proud grandfather to Corinne, Catherine, Benjamin, Brenna, Jack, Kyle, Aiden and Casey. Bill also leaves behind his brother, Robert Hillman (Michele); and his sisters, Ruth Kelley Vollmer (Thomas) and Helen Phillips (Wayne). Many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.
Bill will be remembered for his generosity, humor, and the warmth he shared with everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family is requesting in lieu of flowers that a donation be made in his name to either the Wounded Warrior Project or Homes for our Troops.
Services will be held on June 7th 11am mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Maple Shade NJ.
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