I'm sorry that this is so late in coming.

She was certainly happy and upbeat.

It is always sorrowful for us when a loved one dies.

But for the departed one it will be glorious.

Here are two song renditions that seem to give us perspective:

https://share.singsnap.com/pl…

https://share.singsnap.com/pl…

just go to these internet links and listen.

She'll be missed.

Jay Beacham

I will miss Hildy.   My association with her in Heritage Choir was sweet. Especially after she became forgetful.  She never forgot to be glad. There was always something to be happy about.  God bless you Hildy. 

Her amazing life and legacy are evident in her smile and the lives of her children and grandchildren.  We are thankful for her love and influence in our own lives and those we love and admire.  Thank you “momma Empey”. 

I had several classes with Hilda at West high. She was always so kind and friendly. My condolences to her family. 

HAPPY HILDA SHE SURELY WAS.  WE WENT TO HIGH SCHOOL TOGETHER AND REMEMBERED HER TO BE A VERY PLEASANT PERSON.  I AM SURE SHE WAS AN EFFECTIVE   EDUCATOR. MAY SHE REST IN ETERNAL PEACE.   

I had the pleasure of singing in West High School's first Choral. Choral was a small group of 24 students selected by Mr. Maher. I have many fine memories of singing with Hilda at many events. She was always kind , cheerful and elegant.

Dear Bruce and kids, 

So sorry to hear about Hilda. Our love goes out to you. Many fond memories of being back yard neighbors.

Hilda and I took music and getting certain boys attention to a whole new level back when we first met in August 1970 at the  LDSSA leadership conference in Pine Valley.  Hilda had an interest in Bruce so she handed me one of her 2 Kazoo's, told me which part I should play,  quickly taught me the song, we ran thru the number once then off we headed to find Bruce and his friend Ken Snow (I was new and didn't know either of them).  Apparently they liked our serenade and singing (from Paint Your Wagon). We had a great time making fools of ourselves with the kazoos (easy to sing with Hilda!)....but her scheme worked,  Ken and I became engaged on Hilda and Bruce's wedding day,  and were married a few months after them.  

There is another story about driving to and from Guard together, about Bruces car and a deer on the freeway, but that story should be left on the shelf.  At least for now.  

I met Hilda for the first time at  Kenny’s and my wedding.  She joyfully welcomed me into the family.  She was always so kind and loving.  Kenny and I stayed with Bruce and Hilda during the Christmas season of 2012.  She spoiled us and made us feel so welcome.  I love Hilda so very much.  I am sure Kenny was there with other family members to welcome her to heaven as this earthly Angel is now a Heavenly Angel.  I send my love to Bruce and the entire family.

Love Jan

I'm so sorry to the Empey family. She will be missed. 

I honestly don't remember a time  when Hilda wasn't part of our lives.  It was over 60 years ago that as a teenager that she began her baby-sitting duties, became the favorite sitter, then our Big  (little) sister.  

I truly do not remember a time when the Coxes weren't part of our lives in one way or another.  From birthday cards each year, to her making our family Christmas Stockings down to  making the dog his own one year.  

We would, at times, pick her up at school, where she would quickly change her clothes in the car so she could get onto  her next gig....A'Capella, Chorale, or work.  

To say that Hilda was Optimistic  would be an understatement.   I don't think I knew anyone who's  day was never cloudy or gray, but filled with the brightest, of the brightest sunshine.  

Her fun giggle, and B.I.G. Personality will truly missed.   It seems that although they lived 300 miles away, the world became a little less bright when we lost her. 

Be assured she is watching over her loved ones and that we will see her again one day in a glorious reunion.   

Hillowah, you will truly be missed by many of us, but oh what a reunion, with your mom, dad, Kenny, Arthur, and other loved ones that have passed, it must have been.  No more physical or mental challenges....just our Hilda as she was and as we knew her.   

May the Lord put his loving arms around her family at such a difficult moment.  May a smile or giggle come to you as you remember something she did as your sister, wife, mother, grandmother.  💛

I credit Aunt Hilda and Aunt Donna with sparking my desire to be a preschool teacher. She generously gave me many of her toys, lesson plans and ideas so that I had a jump start on my own preschool.  She would answer questions and help me when I wondered what her notes meant or needed the tune to one of the songs she taught in her class. Many of my children's books are labeled "Empey" from her sharing them with me! She also came and visited us many times when we lived in California. She would visit when she came to drop off Grandma Cox for her to spend some time with us.  Mom's cellphone was shared with Hilda on her plan so I would call home and if my mom didn't answer then I would get a recording of "This is Hilda!" I don't think either of them knew how to change the message to match the right person!  She made sure we had a theme for each family reunion and she would go all out to decorate the campsite to match, bring crafts to make, and wear clothes to fit.  One year they all had cowboy hats and another year had a train theme.  She would lead us in songs around the campfire.  Hilda, Donna and Gen had regular sister get-togethers and they just rotated where they were. We got to be the location several times and they would stay up late talking and laughing (all sounding alike). As her memory failed they would still get together and Hilda was just as happy to be part of it although she didn't remember why they were together.  She is loved and remembered.