Robert J. Hillman

Robert J. "Bob" "Sarge" Hillman, age 91, of Monmouth, Illinois, passed away at 11:08 A.M. on Saturday, October 20, 2018, at his home in Monmouth. He was born June 28, 1927 in Macomb, Illinois, the son of Lloyd H. and Ethel M. (Riley) Hillman. Bob attended school in Monmouth. At the age of 16, Bob enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served his Country during World War II in the South Pacific. He then joined the United States Air Force and served during the Korean Conflict and Vietnam. Bob retired with 30 years of service. On July 16, 1955, Bob married Gloria F. Sage at the 1st Christian Church in Monmouth and she is surviving. Bob and Gloria owned "Steeps Station", which they made into a general store named "Sarge's General Store for 5 years. He also volunteered at the Strom Center in Monmouth. Bob was elected 4th Ward Alderman in Monmouth, served as president of the Board of Directors at the Strom Center, was the Secretary of the Board at Young's Lake, and was once Grand Marshal at the Monmouth Downtown Christmas Celebration. He was a member of the V.F.W. and American Legion in Monmouth. Bob was an ordained Deacon of the Lighthouse Baptist Church where he and Gloria are longtime members. He enjoyed fishing, camping, playing cards, and visiting with his many friends. He was a generous servant who was always willing to help those in need. Bob is survived by his wife Gloria of Monmouth, IL, two daughters; Kathleen Hillman of Monmouth, IL and Donna (Lamar Humphries) Hill of Festus, MO, one son, Ralph (Maria) Hillman of Houston, TX, one brother, Lloyd "Gene" (Martha) Hillman of Monmouth, IL, six grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren. Bob has also been blessed by many close friends who are also surviving. He is preceded in death by his parents, one son, Charles David Hillman, and four sisters. A funeral service is planned for 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, October 25, 2018 at Turnbull Funeral Home in Monmouth, Illinois. Visitation is planned from 4:30-7:00 P.M. on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will be at Warren County Memorial Park. A memorial fund is being established for the Strom Senior Center in Monmouth.