Jerry “E.J.” Hillard, 71, of Bardstown, passed away Monday February 26, 2018 at Flaget Memorial Hospital. He was born January 31, 1947 in Louisville, a native of Owensboro, retired from General Electric, United States Army Veteran, Kentucky Colonel, Honorary Captain of the Belle of Louisville, Honorary Citizen of the City of New Orleans, and Special Conservation Officer for the KY Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Jerry was an avid outdoorsman who loved duck hunting and fishing; and was extremely proud to pass that love on to his grandson. Jerry loved music and played acoustic guitar, bass guitar and drums. He loved to sing with his daughters and granddaughters. He was devoted to his family and his friends, especially those who were like brothers, Alan Smith, M.D., Gary Price, and David Smith. Jerry loved a good joke, a hard laugh, and a great cheeseburger followed by an ice cream, and was known for playing pranks on friends. The world was a better place with him and he will be forever remembered by all those who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Merecedees Hillard; and three sisters, Pat Higgs, Faye Hinson, and Sharon Cooper.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Brenda Pharris Hillard of Bardstown; two daughters, Kimberly Hillard of Georgetown, and Kendra (Brennan) Hite of Bardstown; three grandchildren, Shelby Hillard of Georgetown, Braxton Hite, and Eleanor Hite of Bardstown; and sister, Barbara (Stoy) Jaggers of Cave City.
His funeral service will be 11:00 am Saturday March 3, 2018 at Barlow Funeral Home, with cremation to follow. Visitation will be 2 to 8 pm Friday March 2 and 10 to 11 am Saturday March 3 at Barlow Funeral Home.
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