LACONIA — David Raymond Hilliard, 76, died at his home on June 22, 2025.
He was born Dec. 23, 1948, in Laconia, the son of the late Armand Hilliard and Geraldine (née Chase) Bundy.
A Lakes Region native, David graduated from Inter-Lakes High School in 1967, before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. He retired from the Navy after 22 years with the rank of chief boatswain's mate, surface warfare. Following retirement, he pursued his degree in mental health and human behavior at Springfield College and was employed as a counselor at Lakes Region Community Services. David also taught adult basic education at Laconia High School in the evenings and managed several rental properties in Laconia.
In his spare time, David often engaged with the community, both in formal and informal settings, attending city hall meetings to advocate for the general public while still having time to visit with his neighbors, solving any problems that came up. Anyone who knew David knew that he would do whatever it took to enact positive change in his community and better the lives of those around him, all they needed to do was ask.
Family members include his siblings Carol Brenson, Paul Hilliard and Mary Smith; his stepson Daniel (Dianna) Gagne; and two grandchildren, Taylor and Ashley Gagne.
Calling hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9, in the Carriage House at Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home, 164 Pleasant St.
Burial with military honors will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, July 11, at the Oakland Cemetery, Meredith Center Road, Meredith.
For those who wish, the family suggests donations may be made in David’s name to the New Hampshire Humane Society, P.O. Box 572, Laconia, NH 03247.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.
(1) entry
I knew David as a teen. He was a hoot! Funny and handsome! I am sure he lived a beautiful fulfilled life! My condolences to the family.
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