Ruby Hillier
Obituary
Hillier, Ruby Lorraine
My mother was as close to perfect as any person can be. She would not have agreed to that. She was our rock. Our spiritual guidance. She had it coming from all angles. Hillier men can be a challenge. We are always selling in some way or another, we are always doing something!
We were all so proud of my brother Steve becoming involved in politics, being elected and running two terms. That was a wonderful gift for our mother from my brother.
When I told my mother that my brother is my best friend, she told me that that was the best gift I could give her.
She told me she was proud of her men.
An emotional professional, skilled in the art of kindness. She made everything better in the long run. She listened intently and used her careful words to not only keep the peace, but to preserve the happiness of our family. She was and is our hero, the entire time teaching us how to be a better person. She wanted us to love ourselves as much as she loved us, she exuded love. She didn’t have favorites. Everyone was equal.
11:11 pm was our special time, the time that Steve and I were to turn off our bedroom lights and go to sleep. Often we could convince her to stay and talk longer.
She was much more than a grand-mother to my boys – Mitchell Fletcher and Oscar. She was the mom when no mother was around. She rejoiced to have Sarah bring her love into this life.
My nephews, Spencer and Tyler were in her heart, always with pictures all around her office and home.
Jennifer was a blessing. If I were to be born a girl, Mom would have named her Jennifer as she always wanted to have a girl. Sarah brought Jennifer into her life and ours.
Steve’s wife, Karen, was at her bedside until the end, long hours loving, caring and being strong through the difficult and emotional times.
The Salvation Army Captain Shelly Oseil was there for her when she needed prayer.
Ruby managed Family Shows Canada. She often said that my son hired me at 55, who would do that? My boy, that’s who! She prepared my wonderfully dedicated wife, Sarah with everything she needed to learn to keep the festivals going. Ruby knew that we had gone paperless, no packages ever had to go out. No printers, no paper, no ink- I got a smile – Brian our accountant and christian brother, will be leaned on to keep the books in order. Even near the end, she was asking ,did you get the T4,s out, that was Ruby. Hire someone over 50 that still has the passion for organization, that’s your Ruby, like the precious stone.
She created a gospel tent at our rib festival, she inspired other festivals to do the same, thank you Chris. She supported 3 kids from Africa, now grown men.
Our father raised us to be amazing men. Question everything. Learn and teach. He taught us well and still does. Military career, musician, master craftsmen, business leader, he remains a great teacher of music and craftsmanship. A loving father and father-in-law to Steve & Doug, Karen & Sarah, a grand- father to Mitchell, Fletcher, Oscar, Spencer, Tyler and Jennifer. Great- grandpa to Braydan, Ava, Max and adoptive great-grandpa to Cloe and Isaac
Psalm 91:11, states, “For he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways, “
Her vision of heaven is her riding a lion. Be with her now, take a moment and ride with her, hold the mane, feel the heat of the animal, feel Ruby’s love as we ride our own lion.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Church in the Oaks, 150 Conway Drive, London. Online condolences shared at www.cremationlondon.com
Will miss you my sister love Barry
I will always remember Ruby at the show. She was always happy. I meet her through The Salvation Army. Prayers are with the family t this time.
Our sincerest condolences to you, Doug, and to Sarah and your family. I only met your Mom twice, but I knew she was a gem from how highly Sarah spoke of her. No matter how old you are, no one prepares you for the passing of your Mom. This will be tough, but you’ll get through it with Ruby watching over you. Hugs and blessings from Linda and Rick.
My condolences Doug and family. What an amazing life story!
Wishing the whole Hillier family comfort and strength during this time.
As Steve’s neighbours, we’ve experienced his wonderful support so many times. It is clear his mother had a great impact on moulding him into the person he is today and she must have been a truly remarkable woman.
With deepest sympathy,
Freshly and Nadiya
With heartfelt sympathy and kindest thoughts and prayers to you n yours through this difficult time.
Our condolences Doug and family with the passing of your mother. Ruby was a beautiful soul, always welcoming and friendly. Thinking of Mitchell and his family also in the passing of his grandmother
She left you with beautiful memories , hold her close to your heart and you will know she is always with you
We were all saddened to hear of Ruby’s passing. She was a light and a delightful person.
We are thinking about the whole family through this time and how the fun memories and teachings will live on.
Kevin, Katie and the Lansdowne family.
Although I never had the privilege of meeting Ruby I have had the pleasure of meeting Doug & Sarah recently. They both spoke so highly of Ruby & it’s now obvious to me how Doug has grown into the warm, caring & loving man that I have the pleasure to call my friend. My condolences to you, Sarah & family. Your Mom will be with you always surrounding you all with her love.
In my thoughts & prayers,
Dorothy