Preston Earl (Butch)
Hillis
November 22, 1945 - April 16, 2024
Preston Earl (Butch) Hillis, of Florence, passed away at NAMC on April 16, 2024, at the age of 78. The family will receive friends Sunday, April 21 from 1:00 – 2:00 pm at Woodmont Baptist Church – 2001 Darby Drive, Florence, AL. The memorial service will follow at 2:00 pm with Reverend Chad Hess and Dr. Eddy Garner officiating. Williams Funeral Home is assisting the family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, J. V. Hillis and Pauline H. Hillis, and by his granddaughter, Amelia Nell Hillis.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Kaye Bowling Hillis.
Sons Patrick (Mary) of Decatur and Robbie (Misty) of Florence and grandchildren Mary Kate, Mac, Ben, and Lydia.
His sister, Frances Moore (Mike), brother Michael Hillis (deceased wife Ann). His nephews are Jeff Bowling, Dennis Moore, Jason Moore, Jamie Hillis, nieces Melissa Lyles and Brianna Maharrey.
Preston was faithful member of Woodmont Baptist Church for over 50 years. Member of the Woodmont Baptist Building Committee, Security team and went on several Mission Trips to build or remodel Churches.
Preston served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War as a Loadmaster with the rank of Sergeant. He then returned home and worked for Reynolds Metals before working with TVA at Colbert Steam Plant and Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant for 35 years as a Unit Operator. He was an electrician by trade and a member of IBEW Local 558.
He also gave his time to Safeplace as jack of all trades.
He then went to went work part time for the U.S. Census Bureau.
His love for being a Veteran welcomed him into helping develop the Memorial Grove in Florence. He lowered the flag when needed and took anybody who wanted to go there and learn about our flag. His grandchildren were his favorite to watch each time.
Preston was a member of the Florence Tree Commission serving as Past President & Treasurer for over 20 years.
Preston was a member of Florence Masonic Lodge #14.
He was a Youth and High School Sports Official for over 40 years in Football, Basketball, Baseball, Softball & Soccer as well as an ASA Softball Umpire. He served in many roles within the Tennessee Valley Football Officials Association as President, Board Member and New Member Trainer. He was also the “Chief” of the Chain Gang for UNA Football Home games for 40+ Years. He was a member of the Shoals National Championship Committee serving as the Game Officials Hosts for 20 years.
He was the District Director for the Alabama Baptist Association Disaster Relief Teams serving in numerous states with over 40 trips during natural Disasters.
He was a proud member of Shoals Master Gardeners.
Pops always loved watching his Grandchildren in all their activities and sports. He was a loving grandfather to all of them and could not wait to spoil them with whatever they wanted.
The Family would like to thank his caregivers, Dr. Lyman Mitchell and the staff at NAMC.
In lieu of Flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the City of Florence Memorial Grove, c/o Martha Murphy, 102 South Court Street, Suite 200, Florence, AL 35630.
Visitation
April 21, 2024
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Visitation
Woodmont Baptist Church, Darby Drive, Florence, AL, USA
April 21, 2024 1:00 pm
Get DirectionsMemorial Service
April 21, 2024
2:00 pm
Memorial Service
Woodmont Baptist Church, Darby Drive, Florence, AL, USA
April 21, 2024 2:00 pm
Get DirectionsDonations to the Family
We need to talk about donation portals to the families.
Send Flowers
Here is where we can preview the floral site and take orders directly.
9 Comments on “Preston Earl (Butch) Hillis”
Do sorry to hear about Butch. Love you Kaye and all the family. Loved Butch he was a great man.
A legend. One of the best dads I knew growing up, always showed love and concern for me and all of Robbie’s friends. We will miss him, but he has left a great legacy.
I’m so sorry Kay! Butch was a great man! Praying for you and the family!
I am saddened to hear about Preston. I had the privilege of working with him at some UNA football games. He was a consummate gentleman and always had a can do attitude. His presence brought added pleasure and a sense of relief knowing that he was there to help. I had the bonus of crewing with his son Patrick for a few years. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Florence wii be the none the better at this loss.
Kay so sorry for the loss of your husband. I did not know him but I had the pleasure of knowing you from my time at Parisian and Belk. I move to Tx so have lost touch with a lot of people. Again I am so sorry for your loss. Glenda Sneed Williams
Our deepest condolences during this time. We are praying for your family during this difficult time.
The Padgett Family
Deepest Sympathy
Carolyn(Watson) Davis
North Richard St.
Childhood Friend
🙏 🙏 🙏.
I am saddened to learn that Preston has passed. He was a fine man.
Kaye and Family , I am so sad to hear of Butch’s passing ! I’ve known him all my life ! I just now heard and it is Sunday night !
I will be praying for all of you !!! Love y’all !!!