Valerie J. Hillard

Valerie J. Hillard transitioned from her earthly home at the Clarion Hospital early Sunday morning, April 13, 2025 following multiple health crises. As was the case throughout her lifetime, our sister Barbara Goughler, remained by her side. Thank you, Barbara. “Val” as was her preference, was born to the late James M. and Mary C. (Silvis) Hillard on February 10, 1960 at Wilford Hall, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, TX. She was the oldest of 5 siblings: Barbara (Larry) Goughler of Shippenville, PA, Lisa (Randy) Marchand of Lynchburg, VA, and Brian (Heidi) Hillard of Kane, PA. She was predeceased by her brother Michael “Mike” Hillard of McKnight, PA. Val is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews and 3 great nieces. Val graduated from North Clarion Jr.-Sr. High School in 1978 and from Clarion University of Pennsylvania in 1985. She was employed through Goodwill Industries and the private sector as a behavioral specialist in supportive employment. Throughout her lifetime, Val had a love for writing poetry, corresponding through letters, and being published in the local newspaper with her point of view on a variety of subject matters. She loved her animals, initiating with ‘Herbie” her dog and most recently her 2 cats. The Robert V. Burns Funeral Home in Clarion is handling the arrangements. All services will be private as we, her remaining siblings, need time to reflect, process, and accept another of our siblings has left this earth. Pastor Cindy Duffee, pastor of Pine City Crossroads Church, will be officiating the service. Val will be interred near to her parents in the Greenwood Cemetery in Forest County, PA. We, the three remaining Hillard siblings, extend a thank you to the staff members of the Clarion Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Clarion Hospital emergency room, ICU, and East Wing. We also extend a thank you to Dr. Lencer and Dr. Brooker. The care and compassion you have provided to our sister these last several months has been nothing less than beautiful. Please know, we are appreciative of each of you and the services you provide the local community. Her siblings, Barbara, Lisa, and Brian, would like to take this opportunity to express our relief that Val’s pain and suffering here on earth has ended. Now, Val, Go Rest High on That Mountain. We love you.

Valerie J. Hillard

February 10, 1960 - April 13, 2025