1941 – 2019
Billy (Bill) W. Hilliard was born on January 8, 1941 in Weed, CA to Lamar and Argola (Smith) Hilliard.
Hilliard’s family moved to Seattle in 1943, where he attended Seattle Public Schools, graduating from Garfield High School in 1959. He went on to graduate from University of Washington (UW) where he also left a lasting legacy as an employee. Hilliard played a key role in launching the UW Office of Minority Affairs/Educational Opportunity Program as Assistant Vice President from 1968-1975. A dedicated public servant—he was a director of the Washington State Human Rights Commission, the Seattle Human Rights Department, and served as a lobbyist for Seattle City Light.
Hilliard enjoyed serving his community. He was the first president of the Central Area School Council. He was also a president of the Breakfast Group where he enjoyed mentoring young African American males through Project Mister. His legacy of leadership and community service was celebrated by many. In 1998, Bill was awarded the UW’s Charles E. Odegaard Award—the University’s highest achievement for diversity. In, 2002 he received the UW Multicultural Alumni Partnership’s Distinguished Alumni Award.
Hilliard passed away on October 2, 2019. He is survived by his loving wife, partner, and best friend of 61 years, Dorothy, and their children Todd (Kristi) and Lori. Grandchildren Evan (Clairiessa), Elgin (Sarah), Erica, Elijah Hall and Cori Hilliard. Great grandchildren, Maliyah, Mi’Leah, Lonzell, and Privlige Hall. Also survived by his brothers Barney (Norberta) and Hartsel, and sister-in-law Toni. Predeceased by brothers Ray and Joseph Hilliard.
Hilliard (aka Dad, Papa, and “Homey”) was very much loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
At his request, there will be no service. Memorial contributions may be made to the University of Washington, Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity/EOP, Box 352835, Seattle WA, 98195. The Hilliard Family may be contacted at P.O. Box 22134, Seattle, WA 98122.
