Graveside funeral services for Leonard James Hilliary, 89, of Chickasha, will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 6, 2022 in the Fairlawn Cemetery with Keith Morgan officiating and Dayliene Saxon assisting.
Leonard James Hilliary was born September 10, 1932 to John Hilliary and Velva (Fatheree) Hilliary. He passed from this life on July 2, 2022 surrounded by his family in Newcastle, Oklahoma, Leonard was born and raised in the Medicine Park, Oklahoma area, and enjoyed his childhood in what he often referred to as “his stomping grounds”. He drove his family and friends around the area many times telling all the stories. He was a great storyteller, and always ready to tell the next generations of all the adventures he and his friends, siblings, and cousins had around the park and refuge.
From a very young age Lenard always knew his biggest dream in life was to fly. He stated it was all he ever really wanted to do, and he did it well and often.
He joined the United States Air Force as soon as he graduated high school in Elgin in 1950. He attended the Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology. As a result, he made rank very fast in the Air Force and got to work a many interesting scenarios including crew chief on the B36 FICON peacemaker project.
Leonard met the love of his life Rosa Dawn Crider and married her on December 21, 1952. They made their first home in Spokane, Washington where he was stationed. They had two children and enjoyed their time in the service and all the friends they made very much.
After his time in the service they settled in Chickasha, Oklahoma and ran OK Barber and Beauty supply for many years. He spent most of his time busy at the airport as his love of flying never waned and he did that his whole life.
Leonard was preceded in death by his loving wife Rosa Dawn and his son Larry.
Leonard is survived by one daughter Connie Keeton and her husband Jerry of Porterville, Mississippi; two granddaughters Dava Garrett and husband David of Newcastle and Leslie “Elle” Martin–Woods and husband Donnie of Chickasha; two grandsons James Hillary and Michael Hillary, 14 Great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren as well as a host of nieces, nephews,’ cousins and other family who will all miss him greatly.
In lieu of flowers the family request you make a donation to the American Diabetes Association in Leonard’s name. Donations can be sent to PO Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023
Service are under the direction of Ferguson Funeral Home and words of comfort and condolences may be left for the family at www.ferguson-funeralhome.com .