Patricia Hilliard

1940 - 2025

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness." Proverbs 31:25–26.

Patricia Russell Hilliard, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, mentor, and friend, affectionately known as "Pat" or "Nana", passed away to her eternal reward on September 23, 2025. A true southern lady, Pat was known for her timeless elegance, grace, unwavering faith, sharp wit, a beautiful smile, and fierce loyalty to her family.

Born on January 14, 1940, in Richmond, VA, to Earnest W. and Mildred V. (Smither) Russell, Pat was raised in a close-knit family, where she developed a strong sense of faith and family that would guide her throughout her life. Pat graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Portsmouth, VA, where she also had a career as a local model and developed a keen sense of style, and honed her creativity by making her own clothes. Even though she modeled on and off for years afterwards, winning the 1958 Miss Portsmouth pageant remained a cherished family highlight. After high school, she attended Radford College, studied English, and became a proud member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority.

It was during her time in college that she met Richard, a young member of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. After a brief courtship, they married on June 16, 1961, beginning a love story that would last 64 years. Pat and Richard's life together was full of adventure, beginning with a move to Captieux, France, after college. They spent two years exploring by motorcycle and VW Variant, many of the famous cities of Europe, watching the bulls run in Pamplona, and discovering their love of the fine foods, wine, and antiques of the Old World. After leaving the service, their travels continued with a job in Sydney, Australia, where they spent half a year in the land down under, watching the Opera House rise.

Eventually, life took Richard and Pat to Raleigh, where a new chapter of raising a family began. Pat was a capable and principled woman of high Christian character, grounded in service to others. She expected a lot of herself and of others. Her values of fairness, integrity, and faith were a beacon to all who knew her. She counseled many, offering wisdom and encouragement, always saying, "Be kind and make good decisions." She was a beloved friend and counselor to many, nurturing both her own family and those who also found guidance in her words.

Pat's career spanned many roles, but her true passion lay in working with young people. She was a gifted kindergarten teacher at Millbrook Baptist Church and was known for her compassionate ear, honest advice, and steadfast guidance at St. Mary's School, where she was Director of Development. Through volunteering at the church choir, as a Girl Scout leader, chaperoning mission trips, organizing Christmas pageants, and Vacation Bible Schools, Pat's influence touched the lives of many.

After retiring from her final career in residential real estate, Pat sought meaningful ways to be active in the community. She was a noted volunteer for both the local and state Republican Party, as well as attended the national convention in Tampa, FL. She gave her time to many local non-profits, especially in the arts, and continued to serve her church community in a multitude of roles over the years.

In her later years, Pat endured the profound trial of battling cancer three times. Through each challenge, her steadfast faith in God, unshakable strength, and quiet courage were a source of inspiration to all who knew her. Richard was a devoted and constant presence, caring for every need, by her side, just as he had throughout their life together, until she was called home.

Pat is survived by her loving husband, Richard; a sister Mary Virginia Freeman, Leland, NC; two children, Troy Lynn Kenny (Jim) Hilton Head Island, SC; Eric Hilliard (Jenny) Raleigh, NC; grandchildren, Andrey, Vladimir, Emily, and Estelle Kenny; Everett Hilliard; two great-grandchildren, Raven and Avian Kenny; sister in law Leah Hilliard, Fort Lauderdale, FL four nephews, and many great grand nephews and nieces who were all loved dearly. Her legacy will live on in the lives she touched, the values she instilled, and the love she shared.

A celebration of Pat's life will be held on October 25th at 10:30 a.m. at Bayleaf Baptist Church in Raleigh.

Pat's legacy is one of love, faith, and service, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.