Kathleen Hillson

Kathleen "Kathy" Hillson July 21, 1953 - May 21, 2025

Kathy Hillson, 71, of Winter Garden, passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2025. After raising her family in Chelmsford, MA, Kathy moved to Melbourne in 2013 and then to Winter Garden in 2019 so that she could be closer to her grandchildren.

Born July 21, 1953 in Alliance, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late James T Birch and Gertrude (Orth) Birch. Kathy spent most of her adult life loving and caring for her family while working as a Registered Nurse for more than 30 years, most of that time at Emerson Hospital in Concord, MA

Whether commanding the baseline on tennis courts across New England and Florida, strategizing over spirited games of mah-jongg, or exploring distant corners of the world, she approached everything with enthusiasm and grace. Her adventurous spirit led her and her beloved husband Jack to more than 30 countries, from Japan, to the dramatic landscapes of Iceland-a particular favorite-to the coastlines of South America. Her final journey was a joyful Disney cruise through the Caribbean, surrounded by family and friends.

Above all, Kathy deeply treasured being "Didi" to Mason (8), Harper (7), and Brenna (5). Her grandchildren brought immense joy into her life, and she delighted in supporting their interests and activities.

Kathy is survived by her husband of more than 50 years, Jack, and by her sons Matt (and his wife Julie) of Tampa and Jeff (and his wife Holly) of Winter Garden

Friends will be received on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at Collison Carey Hand Funeral Home, 1148 East Plant Street in Winter Garden from 4:00 - 7:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will follow at Holy Family Catholic Church, 5125 S Apopka Vineland Rd, Orlando at 11:00 am on Wednesday, May 28th.

A private interment will follow at a later date