David H Hillis

In Loving Memory of David H. Hillis
November 13, 1945 - April 1, 2024
Mason, Ohio
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7
David H. Hillis, aged 78, was called to his eternal home on April 1, 2024, after courageously battling a prolonged illness. Born to missionary parents, Don and Doris Hillis in Chicago, IL, David's formative years in India instilled in him a lifelong commitment to faith and service. His journey took him from the vibrant streets of India to the academic halls of Columbia Bible College, where he met his cherished wife, Mary "Scottie" Hillis. Together, they embarked on a path of devotion and education, with David earning degrees from LeTourneau University and Liberty Seminary, and an honorary doctorate from Hindustan Bible Institute and College in Chennai, India.
David's fervor for ministry led him to establish the Word of Life Camp and Bible College in Sydney, Australia, where he served as founder and director from 1970 to 1984. His leadership extended to roles as Dean of Students at Washington Bible College and Vice President at Concerned Women for America. David's pastoral heart guided him through various pastorates until his retirement in 2013 to Mason, OH. His ten years as Chaplain for Holland America cruises allowed him to touch lives across the seas, and his involvement with Call of Love Ministries in Cincinnati solidified his impact on the community.
A gifted orator and dedicated missionary, David's voice resonated in pulpits around the globe, and his hands worked tirelessly on mission trips that spanned continents. Yet, it was his unwavering love for his family and his zeal for teaching the Scriptures that truly defined him.
David's legacy lives on through his loving wife of 56 years, Mary N. (Scott) Hillis, and their three sons: Stephen (married to Christina), Daniel (married to Melissa), and Mark (married to Carla). His nine grandchildren: Taylor Hindes (married to Andrew), Alana Price (married to Garrett), Ashley, Abby, Kerstin, Anna, Alison, Caleb, and Luke Hillis; and two great-grandchildren: Braelynn and Benson Hindes, will carry forward the torch of his faith and love. He is also remembered by his nieces and nephews: Lea Scott, Ashley Scott, Scott Hankal, Sherry Hankal, and Karen Boles. He is survived by a brother-in-law Chuck (the late Judy) Davis and the late Richard (Linda) Scott.
Family and friends will begin gathering at 1:00 p.m. followed by a celebration of David's life on Friday, May 17 at 2:00 p.m. at Kenwood Baptist Church, 8341 Kenwood Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45236. In honor of David's passion for missions, the family requests that memorial gifts be directed to Call of Love Ministry or HBI Global Partner, supporting the ongoing mission work in India that was so dear to his heart.
May this tribute serve as a testament to a life well-lived and a faith well-kept. David's memory will forever be a beacon of inspiration and devotion.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to:
Call of Love Ministry
Online: calloflove.org
By mail: P.O. Box 4986598
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Mission work in India:
HBI Global Partner, P.O. Box 3037
Broken Arrow, OK 74013
or
Online: hbiglobalpartner.org/donation-auditorium-and-education-center/
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.strawserfuneralhome.com