Mary (Coleman) Hillyard, 82, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at River Oaks Health Campus with her loving family by her side. She was born on May 23, 1943, in Princeton, Indiana, the daughter of Curtis and Mary (McRoberts) Coleman. Mary was proud to be the first graduate of Wabash Valley College and continued her education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale earning her bachelor’s degree. She married Jack Hillyard on September 1, 1967, at the First Baptist Church in Mount Carmel and they spent forty-nine years centered on their family until Jack’s passing on December 25, 2016.
Mary will be lovingly remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She had a strong devotion to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She especially enjoyed worshiping through Gospel music. Family meant everything to Mary, and she treasured the time she spent with those she loved. She enjoyed traveling, and among her favorite vacations were trips to Alaska and Hawaii. When at home, she found joy in reading and watching the Game Show Network, never missing an opportunity to enjoy her favorite show, Jeopardy. Mary was a member of First General Baptist Church and will be fondly remembered for her gentle spirit and loving heart. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.
Mary will be remembered by her son, Gary Hillyard and wife, Barbara of Mount Carmel; daughters, Teresa Stoltz and husband, Stan of Mount Carmel, Michele Michels and husband, Jerry of Albion, and Krista Peach of Mount Carmel; three grandchildren, Dalton Michels, Hayli Michels and Camron Peach; special friend, Dorothy Hackworth.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband; three brothers; and four sisters.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 14, 2026, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.
Funeral Services will be at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 14, 2026, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Eric McKnight officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s memory to The First General Baptist Church. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863. Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Mary’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Hillyard family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
