Bessie Leona Hillis

McMinnville, TN resident and Sequatchie County, TN native Bessie Leona Hillis, age 84, was born October 22, 1932 and died December 14, 2016 at her residence following an extended illness. Retired from Oster Corporation and a member of McMinnville First Free Will Baptist Church, she was the daughter of the late Ernest and Daisy Slaughter Minton. She was married December 27, 1952 to James Leslie Hillis who preceded her in death on August 15, 1995. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by grandson, James David Greene; and two sisters, Wilma Keener and Myrtle Smith. She is survived by son, David L. Hillis of McMinnville; four daughters and sons-in-law, Dianne and Charles Swann of McMinnville, Anita Hillis of McMinnville, Pam Young of Altamont, TN and Pat "Bo" and David Burnett of Altamont, TN; nine grandchildren, twenty-four great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren; sister, Christine Layman of Cagle, TN; several nieces and nephews; and family friend, Paul Biles of Manchester, TN. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, December 18, 2016 in High's Chapel with Bill Eversole and James Sanders officiating. Burial will follow in Crain Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service Sunday at High's. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.