Eddie Hildreth Jr.

Eddie Hildreth, Jr.

Eddie Hildreth, Jr. 88, of Denton, TX and Baton Rouge, LA passed away at home peacefully on Sunday, October 14 surrounded by loving family. He was the husband of Gladys (Johnson) Hildreth for 62 years. Eddie was born in Hammond, Indiana on July 31, 1930, the son of Eddie, Sr. and Bertina (Henderson) Hildreth.

Family and faith were values Eddie held deeply. He was completely dedicated to his family and the definition of a model husband, father and grandfather. Eddie could often be overheard singing the praises of his wife, or talking about his children or grandchildren. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Scotlandville and served as a deacon there for over 50 years.

Eddie served in the United States Army and was present for Battle of Inchon in 1950. He was a proud veteran and loved his country and the men and women who continue to protect it. He had many memories of his time in the army and the strength he gained from serving.

By profession, Eddie was a university faculty member serving as the Associate Dean of the College of Engineering and Director of Engineering Technology at Southern University, A& M College where he was responsible for numerous collaborative projects, grants and partnerships with organizations such as NASA, Lockheed Martin, Inland Steel and Union Carbide. Additionally, he worked for the College of Engineering at University of Kentucky helping to recruit underrepresented students into the field of engineering. He retired with the admiration of many fellow colleagues and students and maintained those relationships until his death. Next to pride in family, was his pride in the accomplishments of his students and their ability to help those coming up behind them. He believed in the power of education to change the lives of people and was seen as a mentor and hero by many. He often dedicated his time and talents to making young people, especially those in the minority community, aware of the importance of developing strong skills in science and mathematics.

He was a devoted member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated since 1955, having been initiated in the Alpha Sigma Chapter at Southern University. Another membership dear to him was that in the Association of American Society of Engineering Education (ASEE) since 1965. He was elected to Fellow status in 2000 and was a Centennial Medallion Recipient.

Eddie enjoyed working with his hands and found joy in his hobbies of home repair, working on cars and appliances, doing yardwork with the love of his life or helping a neighbor. After moving to Denton he engaged in activities supporting academics and law enforcement. Having never met a stranger, he could often be found at UNT football games or attending events with the City of Denton Police Department Citizen Police Volunteer Program, bringing smiles and laughter to those he came in contact with. His absence will be felt profoundly and his legacy will live on through the lives he touched.

Eddie is survived by his wife Gladys, son, Dwayne Hildreth, daughters Bertina Combes, Kathleen (Quintin) Harris and Karen (Sean) Lathan; six grandchildren Ashley and Julius Combes, Paige and Zachary Harris, and Caleb and Jacob Lathan; sisters Gladys Stallings, Jewell Ann Jackson and brothers Verdell Hildreth (Delores) and Jerry Hildreth (Patricia) and a host of cousins, in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents Eddie and Bertina Hildreth; his son Eddie Hildreth III; sisters Elizabeth Paris and Donna Hildreth; brother, David Hildreth and devoted aunt and uncle Christine and Jewel Jackson.

If desired, friends may make contributions to The Drs. Eddie and Gladys Hildreth Scholarship, through the UNT Division of Advancement, 1155 Union Circle #311250, Denton, TX 76203-5017 or by calling 940-369-8200.

Arrangements handled by DeBerrys Funeral Home of Denton. Date for interment in Louisiana National Cemetery and celebration of life to be announced.