HILLMAN, Esther Villett Marley

The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona Thursday, July 17, 2003 Esther Marley Hillman, 89, moved on to her next great adventure on July 11, 2002 and the world lost some of its brilliance. The ocean's roar muted in sorrow at the loss of one of its favorite mermaids. And the hearts of everyone she touched developed large Esther-shaped spaces that will likely never be filled. A woman who lived each and every moment to the fullest, she personified strength, energy and sheer perseverance. Her prize-winning smile warmed every space and her keen intelligence reflected a mind that was interested in everything. By her example, she taught others how to live every moment to its fullest. With a heart as young as spring, she loved all children and her family above all else and was happiest when she was with them, at the ocean or riding her jet ski at Lake Powell. Born Esther Villett Houghton in Denver, CO, she grew up in Santa Fe, NM and settled in Arizona in 1938, but for many years she spent summers in Salinas, CA to escape the summer heat and be near her beloved ocean. She was preceded by her 2nd husband, James B. Hillman, her 1st husband, Albert Marley, and her 2nd son Daniel Vinson Marley. She is survived by her son Norman Marley (Cathy), her son Vince's widow Susanne, and her sons Stephen Marley and Craig Hillman (Susan), 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. Her elegance, her strength, her youthful outlook and her love will be deeply missed. A service celebrating her life will be held at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2003 at Phoenix Memorial Park Chapel, 200 W. Beardsley Rd. She would have loved flowers or donations to St. Vincent De Paul Society, P.O. Box 13600, Phoenix, AZ 85002.