Maurice Hilliard Obituary

Maurice "Monk" Hilliard, 89, of Carlisle, PA, passed away Friday, July 11, 2025, at UPMC Carlisle Hospital. Born April 22, 1936, in Huntingdon, TN, he was a son of the late Maurice and Garlande (Patrick) Hilliard. Monk was the beloved husband to Elizabeth "Betsy" Hilliard, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage together.
A proud graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1959, Monk led a distinguished career in the U.S. Army, serving two tours in Vietnam and retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. A gifted athlete, he played football for the Army as both a kicker and tackle and was a member of the legendary 1958 team-the last undefeated Army football squad.
Following his military service, Monk continued his commitment to public service as the Director of Training and Education for the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA). His commitment extended into his community as well-he served as a School Board Director and as President of his church council. Monk had a deep love for animals, especially horses and dogs.
He will be lovingly remembered as a devoted husband, loyal friend, dedicated public servant, and proud patriot.
In addition to his loving wife Betsy, he leaves behind his children, Julie (Hilliard) Barrick and husband Layne Barrick, Cathy Hilliard, and Carol Hilliard; his grandchildren, Rayne and Melissa (Ellerman) Barrick, Hillary (Barrick) and Derrick Luszik; his great-grandchildren, Elijah and Ezra Luszik; and several nieces, nephews, and many friends.
He was also preceded in death by a sister, Rebecca Hilliard; and a brother, Paul Hilliard.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 9, 2025, 11AM, at Big Spring United Lutheran Church, 101 Crossroad School Road, Newville, PA 17241. Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation at the church from 10AM-11AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to his church (addressed above). To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Maurice, please visit our floral store.