Carl Burns Hillis

Carl Burns Hillis passed peacefully in his home on October 6, 2020. He was born at home in Campaign, TN on April 6, 1931 to Dewey & Dixie Lockridge Hillis. He entered the U.S. Army in October of 1951 serving in Europe during the Korean conflict. He returned home to work for Brown Foreman to begin building his future. Carl often said he went around the world to find the perfect wife only to return home to find her down the road in McMinnville, TN where he met and married his sweetheart of 50 years, Wanda Faye Greene Hillis. Together they built a full life including their photography business, rental business, and the home in Dibrell where he passed. As an avid lover of democracy, his country, the free market and politics, Carl put his beliefs into action by serving on various boards and commissions. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wanda, his parents, and four siblings. Carl is survived by his three daughters, Ladye Hillis Martin of McMinnville, TN; Vanessa and Doug Miller of McMinnville, TN, and Holly and Kevin Magness of Irving College; his grandchildren, Reagan Carlene Miller of McMinnville, TN and Kylie Fate Magness of Irving College. Several nieces, nephews, and sister-in-law and brother-in-law also survive. You may have known him as Hoe Handle, Shorty, Big Dollar, The Mayor of Dibrell or just Carl. If you knew him, he was sure to have left you with a good memory or two. At his request, there will be no memorial, but if you wish to do something in his memory, he requested that you donate to your local Meals on Wheels or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. If you knew Carl, you know how he would have voted this year. He has not missed an election since 1948 and would not want you to. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.