Ben James Hillman's Obituary
Ben James Hillman, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend to many passed away on August 3rd, 2024, in Lake Charles, Louisiana at the age of 74. Ben was born on December 4th, 1949, in DeRidder and lived a life filled with love and laughter.
He leaves behind his loving wife of over forty years, Katherine Hillman of DeRidder; five sons: Chance Ray Hillman and wife Pam of Iota; Channing James Hillman and wife Malinda of Charles Town, WV; Bryan Elliott Mobley of DeRidder; Jimmie Lee Hillman of Haughton; Steven Craig Mobley and Traci of Sulphur; one daughter Kimberly Heather Carrier and husband Brian of Youngsville. He is also survived by his brother Donald Ray Hillman and wife Sherry of Longville as well as his sister Gloria Lynn Hale and husband Hiram from Ragley. In addition to his immediate family members he is also survived by bonus family member Michelle Theil along with her children Jeremy and Christian.
Ben's legacy lives on through the memories made with his numerous grandchildren including Amy, Jimmie, Katie, Emily, Amanda, Reagan, Peyton, Christopher, Mathew, Jordynn, Erin, Kate, Dylan, Skylynn, Brooklyn, and Kailynn as well as three great-grandchildren Remy, Whit, and Bennie who will always cherish their time spent with him.
Preceding him in death are his parents, Jimmie & Bennie DeMent Hillman, whose memory he cherished dearly throughout the years.
A dedicated oilfield mechanic by profession but an artist at heart when it came to woodworking - Ben had a passion for creating beautiful pieces that would be treasured for generations to come. His love for hunting brought him closer to nature while cooking allowed him to share delicious meals with those around him - something that brought joy not only into their stomachs but into their hearts too! A proud fan of LSU sports teams - Ben loved nothing more than watching games alongside friends or cheering from home surrounded by loved ones.
One thing that truly lit up Ben's world was spending time with each grandchild & great-grandchild individually- whether it was attending sporting events or simply sharing stories about days gone past- every moment shared became a treasure etched within their hearts forevermore!
Visitation will be held on Monday, August 5th from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Longville where all are welcome to pay respects before saying goodbye. During the Celebration of Life service which will take place Tuesday, August 6th at 10:00 AM with a visitation to start at 9:00 AM officiated by Rev Cory Townsley & Rev Johnnie Johnson. Burial service will be held at Pine Grove Cemetery at 2:30 PM located in Hagewood under the care provided by Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder.
The loss felt due to Ben's passing is immeasurable, so too are the memories left behind which shall continue bringing comfort even amidst sorrow. May we find solace knowing that though he may no longer walk amongst us physically- he shall remain forever present within our hearts guiding us forward through life’s journey until we meet again someday.
What’s your fondest memory of Ben?
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Share a story where Ben's kindness touched your heart.
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