Margaret "Lois" Hillman

Margaret Lois Hillman, known simply as “Lois” to those who loved her, passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of June 2, 2025. She was 65 years old.

In the days leading up to her passing, Lois shared precious moments with her grandchildren—laughter, stories, and love—that now feel even more sacred. She left this world on her own terms, wrapped in the comfort of family, and stepped into her next journey with peace.

Lois was born in Cortez, Colorado, and spent her early years in the quiet town of Dolores before returning to Cortez during her adolescence. Raised with very modest means, without even an indoor bathroom until the age of 12, Lois knew hardship well. She eventually found the strength to walk away from a painful chapter in her life and, despite continued struggles, never stopped showing up with love and laughter for her family. She carried the strength of her roots with her throughout her life—fierce, funny, and always a bit of a spitfire.

Above all else, Lois loved being a granny. Her grandchildren were the center of her world, and she never missed a chance to make them laugh, spoil them, or show up when she was needed most. She loved word search puzzles, long drives with no destination, and lazy days at the lake. She had a habit of rearranging her room weekly—something her family remembers fondly, always bringing a smile and a shake of the head.

Lois was the kind of woman who left her mark. She taught her daughter how to make tortillas and helped raise her grandchildren with patience, grit, and endless heart. Even when life wasn’t perfect and relationships had their ups and downs, there was always love underneath it all. She was a warrior, especially through her battle with cancer, and she faced it with remarkable strength.

Lois is survived by her daughter, Amber (Scott), and her beloved grandchildren: Isaac (24, US Army), Dominic (23), Bella (17), Candice (17), and Chloe (14). Her son, Brandon (Tanner), survives her as well, along with their children: Brandon Jr. (22) and Siriniti. She leaves behind another cherished granddaughter, Harley Ovard (19), and Harley’s fiancé, Mclane. Lois is further survived by 13 of her 21 siblings and her great-niece Samantha, with whom she shared a deep and special bond.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Sophie Speer; her father, Julian Speer; her grandcat, Patches; as well as several beloved brothers and sisters.

A viewing will be held Friday morning, at 11:00 a.m. at Russon Mortuary, 1585 W. 300 S. Syracuse, Utah, followed by a celebration of life at the VFW at 1389 North Main Street, Layton, Utah, at 2:30 p.m. Friends and family are welcome to attend and share memories of Lois. The family would like to thank Dr. Jason Stinnett, Tina, and the rest of the staff at Utah Cancer Specialists (Layton), as well as Quality Home Care and Hospice, for the love and care they showed Lois throughout her journey.

Lois lived a humble life but always wanted to take care of her grandbabies. In her honor, Amber has turned the small amount left in her mother’s account into a gift for the grandchildren Lois adored—they were her life’s greatest joy. She didn’t leave behind much in material things, but her legacy is rich in resilience, humor, and heart. If you feel moved to contribute, donations can be sent to Amber via Venmo @amberbella17, or PayPal at hillmanar@yahoo.com.

It was the honor of her family’s lives to walk with her through her final days. She was deeply loved. Every time you hear Landslide by Fleetwood Mac, think of her and send her a smile. We know we always will.