Mrs. Margaret Dorian Hillin

Margaret Dorian Beidler Hillin passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026 at the age of 102, after a long and well-lived life. She witnessed more than a century of history and change. Margaret was born October 12, 1923, in Yuba City, California, to Harold and Jessie Beidler. She grew up nearby in Marysville on a commercial peach ranch owned and operated by her parents, where she and her brother enjoyed a happy childhood rooted in family and the rhythms of ranch life. Coming from a musical family, Margaret developed a lifelong love of music at an early age. She studied piano and voice and especially enjoyed singing operatic arias. She attended Yuba City College and during the years of World War II served her community by driving a local school bus. While living in California, Margaret was introduced to John Hart Hillin, DDS, shortly before he departed to serve with the Army in China during World War II. The two shared a mutual love of classical music and opera, which became the foundation of their relationship. They corresponded for several years before marrying in 1948 at Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Following their marriage, Margaret and John moved to Shreveport, Louisiana, where he partnered in a dental practice. Soon afterward they relocated to John’s hometown of Henderson, Texas. There he established his dental practice, and Margaret worked alongside him in the office for many years, helping build both the practice and the life they shared in Henderson. Margaret devoted herself to her family and was a loving mother to their two sons. She was known as a wonderful cook and gracious homemaker and maintained many interests throughout her years. Her hobbies included singing, sewing, painting, and refinishing antique furniture. For many decades Margaret was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church of Henderson, where her faith and the friendships she formed were deeply meaningful to her. She also sang in the church choir for many years, an activity that brought her great joy. Margaret and John retired in 1987 and enjoyed several years of retirement together until his death in 2000. Margaret’s long life leaves a legacy of faith, family, and memories that will be cherished by those who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband; and many other special family members and dear friends. She is survived by her sons John Bruce Hillin, DDS and wife Tammy, and Robert Lee Hillin and wife Nancy. She is also survived by her grandchildren Ryan Hillin, Mitchell Hillin and wife Dorian, Dana Gillespie and husband Austin, Tiffany Simpson, and by great-grandchildren Daniel Gillespie, Ari Sciba, and Baby Hillin arriving this fall. The family expresses sincere appreciation to the staff of Pine Lodge for the compassionate care they provided Margaret during the last several years. Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Henderson, the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of her husband, or Rusk County Pets Alive. Pallbearers will be Bill Hammons, Raymond Nope, John Taylor, Jim Witt, Tom Cheatwood, and John Tieken. Visitation will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of First Presbyterian Church in Henderson. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the church sanctuary, with entombment following at Rusk County Memorial Gardens under the direction of Crawford-A. Crim Funeral Home. Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.crawfordacrim.com.

Mrs. Margaret Dorian Hillin

October 12, 1923 - March 15, 2026