James Hillyard

Beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, James Jim Hillyard passed away at his home on July 18, 2017 at the age of 81.Jim was born in Millwood, Virginia, he was the youngest of nine boys. Shortly after graduating high school, Jim followed the footsteps of his brothers and joined the US military serving in the Air Force. A veteran of the Korean War, his military service ended achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant in Great Falls, Montana. It was during this time that he met and married his loving partner of 60 years, Margie Dailey.Jim dedicated his life raising his five children, fourteen grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren, while working in the construction industry as a Contractor and Master Carpenter. He served on the Board of Executives of the Carpenter's Local Union 286 for several years. Jim also was one of the organizers that created the men's slow pitch league of Great Falls.Jim was a hunter and fishermen and could often be found with his wife and children in Lincoln, MT enjoying all the outdoor activities and working on his mountain get-away. However, it was thoroughbred horses and horse racing that was his ultimate passion. As a breeder, owner, and trainer much of his time was spent traveling throughout Montana, Alberta, and the Northwest race tracks with his horses, winning races in Montana, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California, Arizona, Utah, Wyoming, Alberta, and British Columbia.Jim is survived by his wife, Margie; children Cheri (Dennis) Alexander of Great Falls, MT, Dale (Kori) Hillyard of Sun River, MT, Daniel (Kimberly) Hillyard of Newman Lake, WA, Pamela (Bert) Stanford of Pincher Creek, AB, Canada, and Kimberly Graff of Billings, MT; as well as 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents Otha and Carrie; brothers Joe, Nathaniel, Elmer, John, Benjamin, Ashby, Thomas, and Clarence; and granddaughter Janette Renee.A celebration of Jims' life will be held on Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel. Burial of ashes will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery and reception at Schnider Funeral Home.In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jims name to Wounded Warrior Project or Great Falls Rescue Mission 323 2nd Ave. S.