Longtime Eureka Resident Carol Hillman Dies at 76

Carol Ruth Ann Hillman was known for her love of movies, animals, and the natural beauty of Humboldt County.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 1:56pm

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A blurred, impressionistic photograph of a cozy living room with a cat on a chair and movie tickets on a side table, conveying a sense of warmth and nostalgia.The tranquil domestic scene reflects Carol Hillman's love of animals and movies, which brought her joy throughout her life.Eureka Today

Carol Ruth Ann Hillman, a longtime resident of Eureka, California, passed away on March 21, 2026 at the age of 76. Hillman was known for her passion for movies, animals, and the natural beauty of Humboldt County, where she had lived for over 25 years.

Why it matters

Hillman's obituary provides a glimpse into the life of a beloved community member who found joy in the simple pleasures of life, from going to the movies to roasting pumpkin seeds. Her story resonates with many who have made Humboldt County their home and found solace in its natural wonders.

The details

Hillman was born on June 2, 1949 in Lodi, California. After graduating from Berkeley High School, she worked as an overseas operator for Pacific Telephone Co. and later in retail at Mervyn's stores in Richmond, San Francisco, and Eureka. In Eureka, she took great pride in wrapping gifts for customers. Hillman met her husband, Raymond W. Hillman, a historian, in Eureka, where she was the only customer on one of his guided tours of Ferndale. The couple was married for 26 years. Hillman was known for her love of animals, particularly her pet cat Mao and dog Lola, as well as her elegant wardrobe and her passion for roasting pumpkin seeds after carving Halloween pumpkins.

  • Hillman passed away on March 21, 2026.
  • Hillman was born on June 2, 1949.

The players

Carol Ruth Ann Hillman

A longtime resident of Eureka, California, who passed away at the age of 76. She was known for her love of movies, animals, and the natural beauty of Humboldt County.

Raymond W. Hillman

Hillman's husband of 26 years, who is a historian.

Theodore

Hillman's caring son.

Jade

Hillman's sweet granddaughter.

Pam Janszen

Hillman's sister-in-law.

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The takeaway

Hillman's obituary highlights the importance of cherishing the simple joys in life, from spending quality time with loved ones to appreciating the natural beauty of one's surroundings. Her story serves as a reminder that even the most ordinary lives can have an extraordinary impact on those around them.