RAYMOND HENRY HILMES, age 76, of Collinsville, passed away at his home, Sunday, July 14, 2024. He was born on December 24th, 1947, in Breese, IL, the son of Arnold and Christine (Schleper) Hilmes.

Ray grew up in Clinton County and attended Mater Dei High School. At a very early age, Ray had much responsibility and worked very hard. He heard the call of his country when the Vietnam War started and enlisted in the United States Army but was medical discharged a short time later. Upon returning to civilian life, Ray had a six-year whirlwind courtship with Joyce, that bloomed into 49 years of a heart and soul marriage. They made unforgettable memories for close to the next fifty years.

Ray worked at Cooper B-Line, Inc. as an accountant, flipped homes, had a cleaning business, a courier business and worked at Walmart for 30 years. He literally worked night and day for his family.  He chose to send his children to Christian Schools and put them above all. Ray was a proud member of Sons of the American Legion and Navigation Church, where he was a dedicated usher. Ray never had any time for hobbies. His hands were rarely still for any amount of time, and were surely built for labor. He earned every nick, scar and callous that he collected over the years, telling the story of his work ethic and determination.

Ray and Joyce's combined family grew to include five children, but the joy he found when he was surrounded by his children, and later, grandchildren and great-children, was immeasurable. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and believer to those who mourn his passing and celebrate his graduation into everlasting life! He is survived by his wife Joyce; Five children: Byron Hilmes, Shannon Hilmes, Marlon (Christa) Hilmes, Brandon Marshall (Debora) Hilmes and Sharon (Steve) Ramsey; two brothers: Ralph Hilmes and Arnold AKA Jay Hilmes; a sister-in-law, Gloria Johnson; 11 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren, and a community of friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; one brother: Al Hilmes; two sisters: MaryAnn (Dennis) Brown and Irene Hilmes.

The family will host a Celebration of Life on July 22nd 2024, visitation at noon and funeral service at 1 p.m., at the Navigation Church 1205 Vandalia St. Collinsville, IL 62234. Pastor David Amsden, Pastor Dennis Amsden and Dr. Patti Amsden, will officiate.

Ray will be laid to rest in the Sunset Hills Memorial Estates Garden Mausoleum. As it is a mausoleum, in lieu of flowers, please direct any memorial contribution to his church – Navigation Church.

Checks may be mailed to 1205 Vandalia St. Collinsville, IL 62234.

Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.