Leonard Oscar “L.O.” Hilliard

DURHAM- Mr. Leonard O. “L.O.”  Hilliard, 90, died peacefully on Saturday, May 31, 2014 at his home surrounded by his family. He was a native and lifelong resident of Durham, the son of the late Leonard Oscar Hilliard, Sr. and Effie Crabtree Hilliard. L.O. was the happiest when he was at home surrounded by his wife, children, grand and great- grandchildren. His family was his heart. He retired from IBM in 1987 and was an active member of Bethesda United Methodist Church,  United Methodist Men’s Class and Layman of the year for BUMC, he also volunteered for Durham Rescue Mission. He served in the U.S. Army in WWII and received the Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, Good Conduct Medal, American Theater Service Medal, World War II Victory Medal and he was also a member of the 104^th Infantry Division, Timberwolves.

He is survived by his wife of seventy one years, Olive Percy Hilliard of the home; four daughters, Linda H. Roberts (Carl), Debra H. Eatman (Bob), Pamela H. Watkins (Ricky), Martie H. Nolan (Patrick) all of Durham; eight grandchildren, Len Roberts (Karen), David Roberts (Carla), Brent Epps, Brock Epps (Liz), Tiffany Allen (Will), Rob Eatman (Robin), Emily Watkins, Bethany Bullers (Donnie), twelve great-grandchildren, Dillon Roberts, Emma Roberts, Brandon Roberts, Bryson Roberts, William Allen, Jackson Allen, Mae Bradley, Wynn Bradley, Payne Bradley, Brady Epps, Morgan Epps and Kendzi Epps.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at Bethesda United Methodist Church. Rev. Harold Salmon will officiate. Burial will be in Brier Creek Memorial Gardens. Active pallbearers will be Len Roberts, David Roberts, Brent Epps, Terry Epps, Rob Eatman and James Williams. Honorary pallbearer will be Brock Epps.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at his home, 3004 S. Miami Blvd. Flowers are acceptable or donations can be made to Bethesda UMC, 2309 S. Miami Blvd., Durham, NC. 27703. Online condolences can be made at www.hudsonfuneralhome.com.