Tommy L. Hillis

Tommy Lee Hillis, 66, of Ronald, Washington, danced his way to heaven on January 2, 2025, with his children and his ever-loyal cat, Grace, by his side. Grace, true to her name, stayed with him through it all providing him with love and comfort.

Born in Seattle, Washington, to Joanne and Warner Hillis, Tommy grew up in a complicated household that taught him resilience and the value of finding humor in even the toughest situations. Despite the challenges of his childhood, he emerged with an unshakable sense of kindness and a knack for making people laugh, a skill that would become his lifelong superpower. He attended Lindbergh High School, where he lettered in football.

He built a lifelong career as a plasterer, a craft he took immense pride in. Tommy had an eye for detail and a love for his work, often pointing out buildings he helped create with a twinkle of pride in his eye. He saw beauty in the art of plaster and stucco, and his hands-on, creative spirit shone in every project he completed.

Tommy married in 1979 and raised four kids, later proving that love and humor could endure anything—even a divorce in 2022. He was a devoted father and an even funkier grandfather, who never missed a chance to share his love of music, rocks, or a good belly laugh. With a guitar in hand, Tommy could transform any room into a jam session. He loved music with a funky groove—preferably loud enough to shake the walls and wake the neighbors.

Known for his open heart and open door, Tommy was a friend to all, the guy you could count on for a laugh, advice, or just a listening ear. He had an uncanny ability to make people feel at ease and he always made time for those in need.

He leaves behind his children—Joshua Hillis, Andrea Eckart, Nichole Hillis, and Tracy Hillis, his grandchildren, Magnolia, Rowen, Autumn, and Stella—along with his brother Stacey Hillis, and a collection of groovy playlists that will live on. He is reunited in spirit with his parents, Joanne and Warner, and his siblings Stephanie Smith, Todd Hillis, and Dan Hillis.

A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held soon, and details will be shared with friends and family. In honor of his love for cats, in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to ARRF Animal Rescue in Roslyn, Washington (arrfanimalrescue.org).

Tommy Hillis: a man, a myth, a legend, and now, an eternal jam session. Keep it funky, Dad.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston & Williams of Cle Elum. Online condolences may be left at www.johnston-williams.com