Mary Lou Hillman

Mary Lou was born the ninth of thirteen children to Joshua and Mamie (Smith) Steed. She attended school in Meriweather County. Living on a farm there were many chores to be done. Mary Lou was sickly as a child. She mentored her younger sister, Dorothy and together they traveled to Boston, Mass. and lived with their Uncle Albert and Aunt Lou(venia) Mahone.

A debonair gentleman caught Mary Lou’s eye and in 1949 she married Mr. William (Willie) Hillman. They had a partnership, Mary Lou said and they did. They remained wed until his home-going in 2001. Though she had no biological children, Aunt Mary Lou had no problem guiding her nieces and nephews, even well into their adulthood.

Mrs. Hillman was well respected at her job in the garment industry in South Boston. Also at Mt. Washington Bank, where she probably opened more bank accounts for folks than their employees.

She accepted Christ at an early age and continued her spiritual growth until her death. She was a staunch member at People’s Baptist Church. After deciding to worship closer to home, Mary Lou and Willie transferred their membership to G.F.C.C. where they were warmly accepted. She participated in Bible Study at the nursing home.

Sis. Hillman joined Rising Sun Chapter No. 2 OES in 1960 and served as Worthy Matron in 1967. She was a Charter Member of Sarah R. Hall Ct. No. 1 Heroines of Jericho advancing to the Most Ancient Prince Hall Grand Court where she was granted honorary Most Ancient Grand Matron for her dedicated service. She was chosen to be the first Royal Commandress of Mt. Lebanon Royal Court No. 4 OCC. Mary Lou was always busy and she always had a plan. She had a process for all her fundraising efforts. She knew how to make money, be it for her church, the N.A.A.C.P., Family First or her masonic affiliations. Every project she chaired was successful. I don’t think she left ANYTHING undone on her bucket.

One brother transitioned in his early youth, Mary Lou was predeceased by her parents, siblings: Osby, Frank, “Wilson”, Jim Henry and Albert Steed, Lucile McGill, Susie Lee Entzminger, Gennie Mae Prather and godson Robert Jaynes. She leaves many memories with Sister Dorothy Mathis, Brothers Abe and Adam Steed. In-laws Olivia, Grace and Antoinette Steed, Julia Dunn, Walter Hillman, Fannie Prater, Wilhelmina Raines, Barbara Hillman, a host of nieces, nephews and dear friends.

The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to niece Linda Harris, Rosa McGill, Rev. Lloyd, the Staff of Kathleen Daniel, Greater Framingham Community Church, Ms. Marian Heard and all those who kept Mrs. Mary Lou Hillman in their thoughts and prayers. May our Good Lord keep you and your family under His watchful care and grant you with peace and happiness the rest of the days of your life.