Margaret Josephine Dodd Hillier, 98, of St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada, passed away peacefully Oct. 30 in St. Patrick’s Mercy Home in St. John’s surrounded by her loving family. She is the mother of Father John G. Hiller, Director of the Office of the Pontifical Mission Societies in the Diocese of Metuchen and the Office for Persons with Disabilities.
Margaret is predeceased by her husband Graham, to whom she was married for 64 years, and their infant son, Wayne; parents George and Margaret Dodd (Coady); sisters, Harriet, Mary, and Theresa; brothers, Thomas and Patrick.
In addition to Father Hillier, Margaret is survived by her children: Graham (Maxine Webb), Glenn (Shana Hiscock), and her loving daughter, Georgina Hillier; cherished grandchildren: Michael (Claire) Hillier, Justin (Kelly) Hillier and Ryan Webb; and 3 dear little great-grandchildren: Rachael, Vincent, and Teagan.
Margaret was born in St. John’s. While raising her children, she worked at a facility for the developmentally delayed and loved the children and young adults she was helping. Later she worked at a nursing home where she grew to love so many elderly people and helped them tremendously.
Margaret was a member of Mary Queen of Peace Parish in St. John’s. She served as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, and as a member of the Ladies Auxiliary (preparing altar linens for Holy Mass).
For the past nine years, Margaret resided at St. Patrick’s Mercy Home, where she was cared for daily by her daughter, Georgina, as well as health care attendants.
Margaret will be fondly remembered by a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives, especially her cousin and life-long best friend, Marg Roach; and her goddaughter, Tomi Cleal.
Visitation was held at Barrett’s Funeral Home in Newfoundland.
On Nov. 5, Monsignor Edward C. Puleo, Pastor of St. Elizabeth-St. Brigid Parish, hosted a Memorial Mass at St. Brigid Parish, Peapack for Mrs. Hillier and served as one of the celebrants. Father Hillier served as the main celebrant and delivered the homily. Bishop James F. Checchio presided at the Mass as well. Several other priests were also in attendance as concelebrants.
A funeral Mass will take place at a later date with interment at Mount Carmel Cemetery in St. John’s. Donations in Margaret’s memory may be made to the Missionary Childhood Association c/o Reverend John G. Hillier, Diocese of Metuchen, PO Box 191, Metuchen, NJ 08840.