With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mrs. Ella Adelle Stephens Hillman, who entered eternal rest on May 25, 2025, at the age of 75 after a brave battle with cancer. Born on December 19, 1949, to Ann and Joseph Stephens, Ella gave her life to Christ at an early age at Elkhorn Baptist Church in Java, VA.

Ella graduated from Mary Bethune High School in Halifax, VA, in 1968, before attending Business College in Durham, NC. She later moved to Washington, D.C., where she dedicated much of her life to serving the community, particularly through her work at the U.S. Attorney’s office. As an executive assistant and administrator in various roles with the U.S. government, she became known for her professionalism, dedication, and service.

Upon moving to D.C., Ella became a member of Shaw United Methodist Church in Southeast Washington under the leadership of Rev. Stevenson, who also officiated her wedding to Officer Oliver Hillman. Ella's marriage to Officer Hillman was one of the greatest joys of her life, and she was a devoted wife and mother.

Ella was a remarkable woman whose warmth, generosity, and resilience touched the lives of many. She was known for her kindness, always ready to lend a helping hand. She frequently drove others home after church services, ensuring that no one was ever left behind. A lifelong exercise enthusiast, Ella enjoyed walking outdoors, climbing stairs, and doing core-strengthening routines, always modeling a healthy lifestyle. Throughout her life, she held firm to the belief that "God will take care of you," a sentiment she lived by every day.

Ella is survived by her son, Darious Hillman; daughter, Cherie Hillman; her sisters, Lillie Tucker and Valerie Robinson; her brother, Carwell Stephens; and her brother-in-law, Wayne (Willie Pearl) Easley. Her legacy will also be carried on by her beloved granddaughter, J. Olivia Hillman, as well as her nephews, Stacy Tucker, Tony Tucker, Gary Tucker, Theodore Hillman, Rodney Easley, Christopher Easley, Jeffrey Easley, Nickolas Stephens, and niece, Jennifer Robinson Spears. She was also deeply cherished by her brothers-in-law, Albert Hillman and sister-in-law, Brenda Hillman.

Ella was preceded in death by her loving husband, Officer Oliver Hillman; her father, Joseph Stephens; her mother, Ann Stephens; her brothers,  James (twin brother) and Calvin Stephens; her sister, Willie Pearl Easley; and her brothers-in-law, Walter Robinson and Sunny Tucker.

Her legacy lives on in the community and church to which she devoted so much of her time and energy. Ella’s spirit will continue to guide all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by those who had the privilege of her love and friendship.

In Ella's honor, a fund has been established for her funeral expenses. Contributions can be made to the Ella Adelle Hillman Funeral Fund at https://everloved.com/life-of…

Plans for a memorial are being made for late June. Updates to come.

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