Sylvia (Hale) Hilliard

Passed away peacefully in Napanee on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the age of 91.

Sylvia was predeceased by her husband, Robert Hilliard, and her son, Peter Hilliard. She is survived by her daughters, Pamela Davison (Ted) of Kingston and Heather Hilliard (Jeff Hollefriend) of Nanaimo. She will also be remembered by her grandchildren, Leighton (Hope), son of Pamela and Ted, and Ben (Ebonni) and Paige, children of Heather.

A longtime piano teacher in Toronto and Newmarket, Sylvia cultivated a love of music in many of her students and took great pride in her profession. She was artistic and had a gift for creating beautiful spaces that reflected her love of nature, music, and the whimsical. An avid gardener, she was especially passionate about her heirloom peonies. She also loved dogs and bred schnauzers for many years.

Sylvia was a fierce advocate for women’s rights and gave her time to women’s help lines and the Children’s Aid Society. A voracious reader with a curious mind, she explored natural health and homeopathy long before they became more widely embraced. Strong-willed and determined, she set out to live life on her own terms, and that fierce resolve stayed with her to the end.

She is also survived by her sisters, Linda Bam and Eden Hale.

Cremation has been entrusted to Milestone Cremation Services, Napanee. In keeping with Sylvia’s wishes, there will be no service. Memorial donations in Sylvia’s memory to the Alzheimer Society of Canada would be greatly appreciated by the family. Online condolences, photos, and memories may be shared at www.milestonecremation.ca