Patricia Ann “Paddy” (Longmyer) Hillard

Obituary for Patricia Ann “Paddy” (Longmyer) Hillard It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of Patricia Ann “Paddy” (Longmyer) Hillard, who left us peacefully on February 10, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on December 17, 1941, in Columbia, South Carolina, Paddy faced a long and courageous battle with depression, anxiety, and other health issues, yet remained a beacon of strength and compassion until the end. Paddy was the beloved daughter of the late Dorothy Marie (née Wagner) and James Longmyer. She is reunited in peace with her parents, her dear sister Edna Longmyer Watson, and her brother-in-law David Watson, along with many cherished grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members who predeceased her. On March 22, 1975, Paddy married her devoted husband, John Hillard, in Savannah, Georgia. Despite John’s initial reluctance to marry again after two previous marriages, their union flourished for over 50 years. Together they built a loving family, nurturing three wonderful sons: Major (Liberty) Hillard of Irmo, Dallas (Andrea) Hillard of Columbia, and Haddon (Sara) Hillard, also of Columbia. Paddy’s legacy continues to thrive in her ten adoring grandsons: Jesse, Paxton, Douglas, Isaac, Justin, Gallatin, Evan, Elijah, Hunter, and Josiah, along with many other friends and family members who survive her. Paddy was homeschooled by her dedicated mother, Dorothy, and later pursued her passion for education at the University of South Carolina, earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1964. She began her teaching career that same year, dedicating over three decades of her life to the education and nurturing of young minds as a beloved kindergarten and 1st-grade teacher. In 1977, she further enriched her knowledge by obtaining a master’s degree in the same field. Her students were her joy and she treated each of them with the love and care of family, making recess a favorite time of day for all. Though Paddy was a quiet soul who cherished the tranquility of home, she was known for her vibrant mind, often engaging in crosswords, word searches, and other brain teasers. Her hobbies included coloring, painting, and walking, which kept her active and healthy. Paddy was renowned for her warm smile and kind heart, and she was always ready with guidance, advice, or a wise word for those in need. Her love extended deeply to her family and students, whom she held dear to her heart. A service to celebrate Paddy's life will be held on February 17, 2026, at 10:45 AM at the First Baptist Church of Irmo, located at 7068 Nursery Road, Columbia, SC 29212. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Paddy’s memory. Her family shares this message of gratitude: “We are grateful these last 84 years have been filled with one of the best human beings possible. We love you and miss you! Fly high and hope our paths cross again!” Paddy’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, love, and resilience. She touched the lives of many and leaves behind a legacy of warmth and compassion. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.