David Keith “Crockett” Hilling, 62,of Independence, passed away unexpectedly early Tuesday morning, May 28, 2019, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital.
He was born Feb. 14, 1957, in Morgantown, a son of Patricia Young Hilling Nicholson and her husband, Jake, who survive him in Morgantown, and the late Rev. David Hilling.
Survivors include his children, David Hilling, Shaun Hilling and wife, Carole, Zach Pauley and his companion, Jenna Sidwell, Josh Stevens and Sarah Henry; his grandchildren, Katlynn, Jenna, Erica, Bailey, Conner, Isabella, Roman and Sanora; his siblings, Terry Hilling, Larry and his wife, Barbara Hilling, Rebecca and her husband, Randy Whaley, Debbie Hilling, Lynn Comstock and Stephanie Hilling; several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins; and his long-time companion, Denise Trimboli.
Crockett was a proud United States Army veteran, obtaining the rank of staff sargent, having served six years as a surveillance radar operator in both the DMZ and the Iron Curtain. He was a computer programmer at NIOSH, retiring after 39 years of service.
Crockett loved working around his house. He created his own little haven with his constant tinkering. He loved feeding the fish in his pond and building bonfires. His other interests included astronomy, the beach, music, airplanes, aviation and spending countless hours watching The Weather Channel.
In keeping with his wishes, he will be cremated.
Friends may join the family in celebration of Crockett’s life at Nicholson Chapel Church, on the Summers School Road, from 2 p.m. Saturday, June 1, until 4 p.m., at which time full military honors will be accorded by members of Westover VFW Post 9916 and the WVANG Funeral Honors Detail from Camp Dawson, in Kingwood. Following the military salute, family and friends will take part in a sharing of memories.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be to any charity which directly benefits veterans.
Professional services are under the guidance of Smith Funeral & Cremation Care of Morgantown / Westover.
Condolences: smithfcc.com
