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The Rev. Thomas Earl Hilyer, 74, of Clanton, went to be with his heavenly father on Aug. 9.

He was born in Chilton County on March 5, 1939, the son of the late George Hilyer and the late Winnie Hilyer.

Hilyer was ordained in 1958. He served as pastor of 17 Southern Baptist churches in Chilton, St. Clair, Coosa and Talladega counties over a period of 50 years.

In addition to serving the Lord, his family and his community, Hilyer enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and Alabama football.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Mary; daughter, Ramona Vincent (Horace); son, John Thomas Hilyer (Tammy); son, Paul Stephen Hilyer and son, Mathew Alan Hilyer (Ginger).

“PawPaw” enjoyed seven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his brother, Ray Hilyer (Sara); brother, Charles Hilyer (Joyce) and a sister, Barbara Ray.

The family wishes to express their profound gratitude to Suncrest Home Health, especially Teresa Varden and Alacare Home Health Hospice, especially Darlene Traywick and Debra Jones.

Visitation will be held on Aug. 11 from 5-8 p.m. at Union Grove Baptist Church in Jemison.

Funeral services will be held on Aug. 12 at 11 a.m. from Union Grove Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Christmas and the Rev. Don Graham officiating.

Burial will follow in Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville.

Final care and arrangements entrusted to Ellison-Cleckler Funeral Home of Clanton.

www.ellisonclecklerfuneralhome.com.