Charlton : Richard L. Hilliard, 91, of Charlton, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, at The Overlook after a brief illness.

Born in Framingham, Richard was the eldest of four children of Walter D. and Dorothy (Shortiss) Hilliard. He is survived by his sister, Linda Hilliard of Marlborough; his brothers, David Hilliard of Chicago, Illinois, and Stephen Hilliard of Lincoln, Nebraska; and his beloved nieces, Dorothy B. McGrath of Amesbury, and Wendy Brighton and her husband Mark of Pawling, New York. He is also remembered by his grandniece, Peyton McGrath, and his grandnephews, Jacob Maciulewicz, Aidan McGrath, and Drew Maciulewicz, with whom he shared a special bond.

Richard graduated from Bates College with a Bachelor's degree and went on to earn his Master's degree from Trinity University. He served proudly in the United States Army, including time stationed in Korea.

Following his service, Richard worked in the insurance industry before beginning his long and distinguished career in education at Nichols College in Dudley, Massachusetts. Over the course of more than 20 years, he served as a professor of management, eventually earning the title of Associate Professor of Management, Emeritus. Beyond the classroom, he also contributed to leadership development initiatives within the college community. Students remembered him as fair, encouraging, and deeply invested in their success — one remarked that he was "one of the nicest people I have ever met."

Richard's love for teaching extended beyond lectures; he valued mentoring, sharing wisdom, and helping others realize their potential. Even after his retirement, he remained connected to the Nichols College community, where his presence was warmly felt.

Deeply committed to his faith, Richard was active in his church and cherished his ties to his community. He had lived independently in Sturbridge until March of 2023, when he moved to Charlton.

A Funeral Service will be held at the First Congregational Church of Dudley, 135 Center Road, Dudley, MA, on Saturday, November 8th, at 10:00AM EST.  The service will also be livestreamed on YouTube, beginning 20 minutes prior to the ceremony.  Burial at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne will be private.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, is directing arrangements.

Richard will be remembered for his lifelong commitment to education, his steadfast faith, and his devotion to family. His legacy as a teacher, mentor, brother, and uncle will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Congregational Church of Dudley, historic stained glass window fund at Tiffany300.org