Dwain “Bud” Hilliard

Lansing, Michigan

Dwain Edward Hilliard, affectionately known as Bud to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, in Lansing, MI, at the age of 83. Born on September 16, 1942, in Dyersburg, TN, to the late John and Etta (McDaniel) Hilliard, Bud was a man whose life was marked by dedication, service, and the joy of simple pleasures.

Bud graduated from Eastern High School in 1960 and soon after joined the U.S. Marines, where he served his country with distinction as a Rifle Expert. His love for his country was a constant throughout his life, proudly displayed by the American and Marine Corps flags that flew outside his home every day. After his service, Bud began a longstanding career with General Motors as a Quality Inspector, a role he devotedly fulfilled for 37 years until his retirement.

On July 19, 1968, Bud married the love of his life, Maggie, and together they built a family foundation of love and laughter. Their union was blessed with three children, Steven (Dena) Hilliard, Scott Hilliard, and Staci (Jeff) Sova, and a granddaughter, Rayn Sova, who was the twinkle in Bud's eye. The family shared countless memories, often centered around Bud's many interests and hobbies.

A Christian by faith, Bud's life was a testament to his beliefs. He found joy in the fellowship of the American Legion Riders-Leslie Post, where he was a proud member. His love for motorcycles and sailing was only matched by his commitment to community service, including his time spent delivering meals on wheels and volunteering for Toys for Tots. He was also a member of Local 652 General Motors. Bud's dedication to others was equally evident in the meticulous care he took of his yard and the time he devoted to spending time with family and friends.

Bud was an avid enthusiast of all things maritime, earning the title of Coastguard Captain. His passion for the water was only rivaled by his love for vintage automobiles, often found giving tours at the Oldsmobile Car Museum with a twinkle in his eye and a story at the ready. He also entered many car shows and won countless trophies for his 1967 Oldsmobile Cutlass and Motorcycles.

Visitation will be held at Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes Holt/Delhi Chapel on Thursday, October 23 from 5:00pm-7:30pm with a Rosary being prayed at 7:30pm. The Funeral Mass will be Friday, October 24 at 11:00am at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church with Rev. Fr. John Byers as celebrant. Interment will immediately follow the Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Those who knew Bud will remember him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. His humor and friendliness made him a cherished companion to many, including his sister, Shirley (Bob) Maniss and many loving nieces and nephews. His ability to light up a room with laughter and engage with everyone he met made him a beloved figure in his community. Bud's legacy is one of unwavering love, relentless humor, and a friendly spirit that will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. As we bid farewell to Dwain "Bud" Hilliard, we do so with gratitude for the memories shared and the knowledge that his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us.

Dwain “Bud” Hilliard

Lansing, Michigan

Dwain Edward Hilliard, affectionately known as Bud to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, in Lansing, MI, at the age of 83. Born on September 16, 1942, in Dyersburg, TN, to the late John and Etta (McDaniel) Hilliard, Bud was a man whose life was marked by dedication, service, and the joy of simple pleasures.

Bud graduated from Eastern High School in 1960 and soon after joined the U.S. Marines, where he served his country with distinction as a Rifle Expert. His love for his country was a constant throughout his life, proudly displayed by the American and Marine Corps flags that flew outside his home every day. After his service, Bud began a longstanding career with General Motors as a Quality Inspector, a role he devotedly fulfilled for 37 years until his retirement.

On July 19, 1968, Bud married the love of his life, Maggie, and together they built a family foundation of love and laughter. Their union was blessed with three children, Steven (Dena) Hilliard, Scott Hilliard, and Staci (Jeff) Sova, and a granddaughter, Rayn Sova, who was the twinkle in Bud's eye. The family shared countless memories, often centered around Bud's many interests and hobbies.

A Christian by faith, Bud's life was a testament to his beliefs. He found joy in the fellowship of the American Legion Riders-Leslie Post, where he was a proud member. His love for motorcycles and sailing was only matched by his commitment to community service, including his time spent delivering meals on wheels and volunteering for Toys for Tots. He was also a member of Local 652 General Motors. Bud's dedication to others was equally evident in the meticulous care he took of his yard and the time he devoted to spending time with family and friends.

Bud was an avid enthusiast of all things maritime, earning the title of Coastguard Captain. His passion for the water was only rivaled by his love for vintage automobiles, often found giving tours at the Oldsmobile Car Museum with a twinkle in his eye and a story at the ready. He also entered many car shows and won countless trophies for his 1967 Oldsmobile Cutlass and Motorcycles.

Visitation will be held at Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes Holt/Delhi Chapel on Thursday, October 23 from 5:00pm-7:30pm with a Rosary being prayed at 7:30pm. The Funeral Mass will be Friday, October 24 at 11:00am at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church with Rev. Fr. John Byers as celebrant. Interment will immediately follow the Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Those who knew Bud will remember him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. His humor and friendliness made him a cherished companion to many, including his sister, Shirley (Bob) Maniss and many loving nieces and nephews. His ability to light up a room with laughter and engage with everyone he met made him a beloved figure in his community. Bud's legacy is one of unwavering love, relentless humor, and a friendly spirit that will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. As we bid farewell to Dwain "Bud" Hilliard, we do so with gratitude for the memories shared and the knowledge that his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us.