James "Jim" Hillman

James “Jim” Bowyer Hillman passed away at the age of 63 on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. He was born on September 13, 1961. He was the son of the late Dr. Charles H. Hillman. Jim—known as “Jimmy” to his family—is survived by his mother, Bettye Hillman, and his sister, Nancy Hillman Boyd (Tim), both of Greenville, SC.

Jim is also survived by his children: Amanda Lee Hillman of Kingsport, TN; Joshua Brandon Hillman (Tiffani) of Newport News, VA; Noah Shane Brown of Kingsport, TN; and McKinleigh Addison Willow Hillman of Johnson City, TN. His granddaughter, Jordan Leigh Hillman of Johnson City, TN, also survives him. Jim may have struggled to show affection in his later years, but he loved his children immeasurably.

Jim attended University High and later enrolled in a flight school in Vero Beach, FL. He had a deep love of flying—it gave him great joy to let his inner daredevil loose. He worked as a crop duster in the Yuma, Arizona area and later in Yuba and Butte counties in California. He continued flying until spine issues made it physically impossible.

Jim eventually returned to Johnson City, where he owned and operated Creative Hardscapes, a landscape design business. He specialized in designing and building hardscapes throughout East Tennessee. His creativity lives on in his work, found in homes across Johnson City and East Tennessee, as well as at East Tennessee State University and at Founders Park.

Above all, Jim will be remembered as a friend to everyone he met, regardless of background. He never met a stranger. His wit and sense of humor were unforgettable, though substance abuse and mental illness dimmed them in his later years. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse or mental illness, please know that help is available through many organizations and agencies throughout East Tennessee. Don’t wait to seek support for yourself or someone you love. It is never too late.

Those struggling are encouraged to contact Emmaus Medical and Counseling at https://emmausmedicalandrecovery.com/johnson-city/ or (423) 202-3008, as well as https://recoveryresourcestn.org/ or (423) 491-2420. For mental health support via text, you can use the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by texting or calling 988.

There will be no public services at this time.

Memories and condolences may be shared via www.morrisbaker.com

Morris-Baker Funeral Home, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Hillman family. (423) 282-1521