John Hillier

South Portland- John Hillier, 81, of Main Street died peacefully on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at Mercy Hospital. John rode off into the sunset with his loving family by his side. John was born in Providence, Rhode Island on December 28, 1942 the son of the late Alfred and Catherine (O’Leary) Hillier. He was born, raised and educated in Rhode Island graduating from Central High School in Providence. After high school John enlisted and served in the United States Army. Most of John’s working career was spent as a heavy civil construction engineer, he had an impressive career and a strong work ethic. Upon moving to Maine he worked for Reed & Reed and was chief engineer for the Cianbro Corporation. He then worked for FEMA for 15 years, where he was very proud of his accomplishments and success, and received many awards from FEMA. In his spare time John enjoyed fishing, golfing, gardening and being at home with family. He built three homes for his family, two in Scarborough and one in Cape Elizabeth. He loved animals, especially his dogs, Freddie, Homer, Piper and Timber who all brought him a great deal of joy. John was a kind person, witty and had a vast knowledge and could talk about any subject. He was gentle, generous and accomplished, a respected good man who lived his best life until the end. Providing for his family was always John’s top priority. John was married for 29 years to Helen and had 3 children with whom his world revolved around. John was predeceased by a son, Jonathan Hillier in 2021; a brother, Fred Hillier. He is survived by Helen Hillier Deshaies of Old Orchard Beach, two daughters, Lori Hillier of South Portland, Jennifer and her husband Jesse Dowling of Kennebunkport; six grandchildren, Austin Gross, Jennifer Gross, Samantha Hillier, Willa Dowling, Ryan Hillier and Madeline Dowling; a sister, Catherine Hillier Woodward of FL; several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held at 1:00pm on Friday, January 19, 2024 at the Southern Maine Veterans Cemetery, 83 Stanley Road, Springvale, ME. A celebration of life will follow at Jennifer and Jesse’s home 15 Back Harbor Rd., Kennebunkport, ME 04046. Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 1024 Broadway, South Portland, ME. To view John’s memorial page, or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com