Melvin graduated from Iowa State where he received a degree in Electrical Engineering. He worked as a Rocket Scientist for 40 years and retired in 1999. He was a board member, coach, manager, and umpire for Little League Baseball for 10+ years. Melvin also was also a part of the Conduct and Ethics Committee and was a Director at Bridge House of Hot Springs. He was also a member of Saint John the Baptists Church.
Melvin was a world renowned magician and loved to play fantasy football. He also enjoyed playing bridge, doing jigsaw puzzles, and solving crossword puzzles. His favorite things to eat were chicken fried steak and Whitman Sampler candy. Melvin loved the winter time especially Christmas. He loved to recite The Night before Christmas for all the children and adults. Melvin had the brightest smile and will be missed dearly.
Melvin is preceded in death by his parents and his brother Dennis Hilliard.
He is survived by his wife Jane Ann Hilliard; Children: Catherine Hilliard, David Hilliard (Patricia), Thomas Hooton, Stephen Hooton (Marge), and Jeffrey Hooton (Stephanie); Sister JoAnn Ross (Tom); Grandchildren: Brittney Newell (Lucas), Nicholas Hooton (Alicia), Madelyn Hansen, Ella Hilliard, Melody Hilliard, Wyatt Hilliard, Charles Hooton; Great Grandchildren: Elliott Newell, Melanie Hooton, and Liam Hooton.
A Rosary Service will be held at Saint John the Baptists Church on Thursday February 9, 2023 at 10:00am with a Visitation at 10:30 and Mass to follow.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grossfuneralhome.com for the Hilliard family.
