Hilda Kilgore

Born in Alexander City, Alabama on September 1, 1926

Departed on January 14, 2015 and resided in Franklin, Tennessee

Hilda Johnson Kilgore passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2015 at the age of 88. She was born in Alexander city, Alabama. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Carrol. Hilda is survived by her children Laura Sparer (Arthur), Roger Kilgore, Shirley Stubblefield (Mark), and Jennifer Coriell; sister Robbie Jean Cafferky; nephew Jory Cafferky; grandchildren Ethan and Pearce Coriell, Sophie Sparer, and Luke, Sam, Leah, and Aaron Stubblefield; and great-niece, Kim Hood, whose love and devotion to both Tia and Tio were priceless.

After graduating from George Peabody College, Hilda did graduate work in Mexico City for a year. She then taught English and Spanish in Columbia and Nashville. She later was the coordinator of volunteers for Metro Nashville's Family Planning Clinic. Hilda served as the executive director of Planned Parenthood Association of Nashville from 1973 - 1984. During this time she received her MS degree in management of a human service agency from Peabody College.

With a wide variety of interests, Hilda's life journey was purposeful and productive. She turned her love of bonsai trees into a business, Bonsai of Nashville, with the late Dr. Bill Clark. She raised champion Golden Retrievers, traveled the world with Carrol, and donated much of her time and talents to many organizations. Hilda was honored by the Davidson County Business and Professional Women's Club and the Nashville Banner in 1977. She was a Mary Catherine Strobel Award Nominee in 1987.

The family would like to thank close friend, John Keramidas, for his kind and steady support. They would also like to express their gratitude to the staff of Homewood Residence for the excellent care Hilda received over the past 2 years.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, January 24, at 3pm at Harpeth Hills Funeral Home, 9090 Highway 100, with Rev. Susan Gray officiating. Visitation with the family will be at 2pm prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, you may wish to contribute to the Alzheimer's Association, Cheekwood Botanical Gardens and Museum, or your local humane association.