Darla Jean Hilliard
May 31, 1952 - March 15, 2013
Darla Jean Hilliard, age 60, of Salem, Oregon, went to be with the Lord.
She was born the youngest of 13 children to the late Melvin and Eartie (Lea) Wilson, in McMinnville, Oregon. Darla as a child grew up in the Monmouth and Salem areas. Darla married Michael Hilliard in 1982 and has lived in Salem since.
Darla is preceded in death by both her parents, 6 siblings and her precious son Marvin Leon Saunders JR. She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Michael Hilliard. Her daughter Dawn (Ricardo) Marquez and their 4 children; Alejandra, Joshua, Isaac and Adam. Her step-daughter Michelle (Eric) Takahashi and their 3 children; Marcia, Michael and Sabrina. And by 6 siblings, Hazel, LilliAnn, Marvin, Rodger, Travis and Patricia.
Darla was always overflowing with love and encouragement for family and friends. With her big heart she looked for ways to comfort or help others. Darla generously and warmly opened her home for all the family gatherings. It was important and dear to her to gather friends and family. She made each holiday, picnic or birthday celebration full of joy and love. Darla treasured her flowers she grew in her beautiful yard. They gave her peace and rest at the end of each busy day. She enjoyed traveling all over the state to watch her favorite sport, basketball, to cheer for her grandbabies and be their number one fan!
1Corinthians 13:7
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
A graveside service will be held March 23rd, at 11:00 a.m. at Fir Crest Cemetery in Monmouth, Oregon and Celebration of Life will be following the graveside at 1:00 p.m. in Salem at Oak Park Church of God, 2990 Lancaster DR NE, Salem Or 97305. Arrangements are being made by Farnstrom Mortuary.