Willie Murray Hillsman

Willie Murray Hillsman

Cedar Rapids

Willie Murray Hillsman—known to many simply as Murray and lovingly as Grandaddy—passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at the age of 85, surrounded by family after a long and courageous battle with chronic health issues.

Murray was a pillar of the Cedar Rapids community. Known for his legendary BBQ, handy hands, warm hospitality, and generous heart, he touched countless lives and was loved by all who knew him. His home was a gathering place—a space filled with laughter, love, and the comforting smell of good food. To many, "Grandaddy's house" wasn't just a home; it was a haven.

Born on April 7, 1940, to B.H. and Anna Hillsman in Atwood, Tennessee, Murray Hillsman lived a life devoted to faith, family and service. Murray spent his childhood in Atwood, Tenn., and at the age of 17, he set off to Cedar Rapids, Iowa to begin building the life that would leave such a lasting mark on those around him. Guided by his entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic, he spearheaded and supported many ventures, built a large family, and became a rock within his community.

Throughout his working years, Murray was a man of many talents, thriving in every endeavor he pursued. An astute entrepreneur, he owned and operated several successful businesses. At the same time, he was a dedicated and loyal employee at Hill & Williams Bros., where he worked for many years. Murray formed a close bond with the Hill family, who became like an extended family to him. He wore many hats within the Hill organization, from driving trucks and performing construction work to carpentry. When Kris Hill, the owner of Kris Hill Company was recovering from a tragic accident, Murray stepped in to support Kris and Cathy Hill, the business and assist with Kris' recovery. In turn, Kris and his wife, Cathy, were there for Murray during his own health struggles, offering their care and support. Murray's unwavering skill, dedication, and loyalty to his work and those around him will be deeply missed.

A man of deep faith, Murray was a devoted member at Gospel Tabernacle, where he faithfully served in the Children's Ministry for many years. His dedication to teaching and guiding young hearts reflected his love for God and others. Murray later became a member at Bethel Church, where he served as an Usher for many years. He truly enjoyed greeting fellow members with a smile on Sunday mornings. He remained a faithful member of Bethel until he was unable to serve in the church.

His belief in putting God first was the foundation of his life, and his kindness and generosity reflected that faith daily. Murray was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need—never hesitating to offer advice, support, a meal, or a place to stay.

Murray loved life and he especially loved living it in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He often spoke with deep affection for the city, once saying with a smile, "I love you, Cedar Rapids—best city in the whole wide world." His love for his adopted hometown was as strong and enduring as the life he built there.

Murray's legacy is one of love, service, faith, and community. His spirit will continue to live on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched with his warmth and generosity.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Murray was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Connie Hillsman, and his siblings Tranquila Pate, Brenda Word, Myra Phillips, Gloria Parker, his daughter Nolita Gretten, and his mother and father Mary and B.H. Hillsman.

He is survived by his sister Addie Gass and brother Ben Hillsman Jr., children, Victoria Ampey-Hillsman, Valeria Hillsman, Tammy Smith, Murray Hillsman, James Nolan Doolin Jr., Josette Doolin, Butch Gretten, Deanna Gretten, Jackie Gretten, Elizabeth Lloyd, Alisa Donald, Laurel Clark, Theresa Sturges, Susan Brooks and a host of loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family and friends will remember him for his wisdom, love, his laughter, his warm heart and of course, his delicious BBQ.

A funeral and celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, November 15 at 12:00 pm at Mount Zion Baptist Church, 6621 C Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.

The family wishes to thank:

Everyone that's helping out in our time of loss.

The Hill family for their years of love and support.

The Granddaddy Crew (you know who you are) for all of the love and support over the years.

To the UnityPoint Care team for your years of impeccable service to our Father.

From our family to you all, we thank you. God Bless.