Kathleen L Hilling

Kathleen (Kay) Louise Hilling, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt, of Livingston, MT passed away on Monday November 27, 2023, after spending her last seven days at home with the ones she loved most, her family. She was 75 years old.

Kay was born in Billings, MT on October 23, 1948, to Henry and June Hilling. She was the youngest of four, Sandy, Henry (Bubby), and Stan. She graduated from Billings Senior High School, class of 1966.  Kay always said her career started at the age of 14 when she began working for her father at his pharmacy in Billings, which lead to a lifetime career in medical records. She married Jim Burns, April 8, 1967. With their marriage brought three children, Robert, Eric and Jennifer. They were divorced in 1975. Kay later married Bud (George) Smith, on October 18, 1980, with whom she had two daughters, Kristin and Sara. Kay and Bud (George) eventually divorced.

Kay had a passion for helping others, this was one of the many reasons she enjoyed her career, as it gave her that opportunity. When not helping others, she loved to travel whether it was with one of her children, grandchildren or her siblings. Spending time at the beach, going to dinner, visiting Yellowstone National Park and exploring other parts of the world were just a few of her favorite activities.

Besides her family her most loved possession was her sweet and lovable dogs, Tuffy and Trouble, her “kids” as she liked to call them.

Kay was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in April 2022, and although she knew the odds were against her, Kay did everything she could to give herself more time with her family, and she did until her last breath. She truly was an amazingly strong woman.

Kay is survived by her son Robert Burns (Effie Orser), Eric Burns, Jennifer Klompien (Todd), Kristin Smith and Sara Geffre (Brian). Grandchildren Forrest, Mady, Courtney, Tanner, Elton, Quincy, Kara, Ayden, Harley, Keena, Tanner, Tate, Savanah, Connor, Seena, Naveah, Remi and JoeZ, and great-granddaughter, Tylee. She is also survived by her siblings Sandy and Henry, many nieces, nephews and friends.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Stan.

It takes a special kind of person to work in Hospice. Words cannot express how thankful Kay’s family is for the kind and compassionate care the hospice nurses and staff of Livingston Health Care gave to Kay throughout her final days.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday December 16, 2023, at Franzen-Davis Funeral Home in Livingston, MT beginning at 1:00 PM.  All those attending the service are invited to stay for a reception where refreshments will be served.

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