Robin Hillman

Robin Hillman of New Smyrna Beach, FL (formerly of Hopewell Junction, NY and Oxford, CT), passed away on February 5, 2024, after a valiant battle against glioblastoma. While she was only 56 years young, she lived each year of her life to the fullest and truly knew how to cherish each and every day.
With an adventurous spirit and fierce determination, Robin embraced all of life's journeys. She found joy in traveling, playing tennis, hiking, biking, fishing, dancing, pickleball, photography and snow skiing. Despite facing her diagnosis, Robin's unwavering physical strength and positive attitude allowed her to defy expectations, living a life that surpassed the average prognosis by virtually twice as long. Indeed, Robin was anything but average.
Her zest for life was contagious and lives on through those who knew her, especially her amazing children, Makena and Quinn. Whether skiing down slopes together or planning their next trip, Robin instilled in them a love for exploration and together, they created memories that will endure forever.
In addition to her children, Robin leaves behind an enormous network of loving family and friends. Survivors include her cherished wife and soulmate, Catherine Longo, with whom she shared countless adventures and boundless joy. Their partnership was a source of strength and happiness, enriching both their lives and the lives of those around them. Robin is also survived by her loving and supportive mother, Donna Hillman, her sister and closest confidante, Shawn Petagine, her niece and goddaughter, Sedona, along with her cherished bonus children Adrian Hoda, Sarina Hoda, and son-in-law Ben Modos. Robin further leaves behind her former partner, Terry Kwiatkowski Hillman, with whom she raised Makena and Quinn with into the amazing people they are today, as well as cherished in-laws, cousins, aunts, and uncles. Robin's powerful love team comprised of hundreds within her circle and all held such a special place in her heart and provided continued encouragement throughout her journey. Robin is predeceased by her father, Robert Hillman, her brother Robert Jr., and her grandparents.
Beyond the bonds she naturally cultivated with those in her life, Robin also found great pride in her 25+ year career following an impressive education journey. This started with her receiving her Radiology Technology Degree at St. Luke's Medical Center, followed by her Bachelor's Degree from Nyack College and culminating with her Master's Degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of New Haven. Robin held impressive roles at quite a young age such as Director of Radiology at Middlesex Hospital, she knew right away that she had a passion with applying technology to the advancement of women's health. As Senior Director of Operations/Clinical Services at Russo Radiology, she played a vital role in the establishment and management of multiple radiology practices in Connecticut. Later, as Vice President of Clinical Services at Hologic within the Breast & Skeletal Health Division, she oversaw operations and development including customer training for sizable teams. She was passionate about her work and proud to be part of a company that pioneered 3D mammography for better cancer detection. There is no doubt that Robin's efforts contributed to saving hundreds – if not thousands- of lives.
Following her career in the corporate world, Robin and Catherine moved to sunny New Smyrna Beach where she continued to coach, mentor and encourage people with whom she had worked with. She had a knack for forging lasting bonds not only in her professional life but in her personal life as well. You could literally feel her energy and enthusiasm the moment she entered any room.
A celebration of life will be held at United Church of Christ, 203 Washington St., in New Smyrna Beach on February 12, with visitation from 11:00 – 11:30am followed by a brief ceremony. We ask that those attending wear colorful or vibrant attire in honor of such a vibrant spirit. An additional ceremony will be held in New York in March with details to come.
The family would like to express thanks to the people of Advent Heath, Duke Brain Cancer Center, Shands Hospital and Halifax Hospice Care who cared for Robin. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to your local food pantry or charity of your choice.