Clarence Larry Hilty, 78, entered into rest on January 17th, 2021. Larry was born on November 8th, 1942 in Arrington, Kansas to Clarence and Elsie Hilty He had 2 brothers. When he was 8 years old, Larry and his family moved to Avondale, AZ where he grew up. He eventually settled in Mesa, AZ.
Larry worked as a diesel mechanic and welder and served the Lord by singing solos and as a member of praise and worship teams, including prison ministry. He was married to Brenda for 34 years. There wasn’t a home project or mechanical problem he couldn’t fix. In spite of many physical ailments, he continued to push through to accomplish tasks that were before him.
Larry’s best buddy in his later years was his parrot Tucker. Both he and Tucker adored each other equally, much to the dismay of many family members who still can not get near the bird much less hold him like Larry could. There were several times through the years it looked like the Lord was going to call Larry home, but his family suspects Larry’s ornery nature is what kept him here on earth to continue to pick on all those around him as he so often loved to do. The day finally came when the Lord decided He needed another handyman in heaven, and Larry was called home where he can now tinker on things to his heart’s content and fly once again as he had loved to do as a young man. Larry is loved by many and will be sorely missed by all.
He is survived by his wife Brenda, daughters Donna Williams, Terry Hughbanks (husband Lee), Nikki Elliott (husband JP) and Tina Sanborn (husband Earl). Grandchildren: Leon, Lenetta, Crystal, Hannah, Wayne, Taylor, Hannah, Candis, Meagan and Shelby. Great-grandchildren: Jaxen, Zoey, Charlotte, Knox, Aaliyah, Natalee, Matthew, MaKeena, Phoenix, Maverick and Brady. His brother Don Hilty (wife Dottie).
A Celebration of Life service will be held on February 4th, 2021 at 2:00 pm at Christ’s Church of the Valley (CCV), 1330 S. Crismon Rd. Mesa, AZ 85209.
I’m so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. My daughter Morgan has many fond memories of having sleep overs with their grand daughter Taylor. Love & Prayers to the family
Our family knew and visited Larry Hilty and his family frequently, and my husband went to High School with him. He loved flying and he e and my husband would go target practicing frequently as well. We knew Donna and Terry as well. So sorry for the loss of such a special individual. We attempted to find him years ago, but no luck at that time. Our condolences and love to his family. He rests in the arms of His Savior, but we will all be united again one day.