Buford Hilliard, Jr.

Buford “Mouse” Hilliard Jr., born April 11th, 1930 in Elkhart, Indiana to the union of Buford Hilliard Sr. and Elizabeth Stringer, made his peaceful transition on Sunday, September 25th 2022.

Buford graduated from Elkhart High School in 1948 and then enrolled into Indiana State College in 1949 on an Art Scholarship. He was a member of the United States Army from 1951-1953 and was a member of one of the last racially separated Army Training units at Fort Leonard wood, located in St. Robert Missouri. (during the Korean War) Buford eventually retired from the United Sates Army, serving the rest of his duty in the US Army Reserves – achieving the rank of Master Sargent.

Buford had immense pride and work-ethic in Federal Service. He retired as a supervisor for the United States Postal Service after 34 years of service at the South Bend Main Branch.

He was a devoted member of the LaSalle Landing Lodge # 298, I.B.P.O. E of W, a dedicated member of the South Bend Kiwanis Club, and a faithful member of Greater New Vision Church of South Bend, Indiana. At Greater New Vision, Buford served on the Pastor Aid Committee and as Board of Trustee member.

As many of you know, Buford was an avid bowler who also was very good at his craft. In the sport of bowling, a 300 game is considered to be a perfect game. Buford had two perfect games, received a plaque from the United States Bowling Congress in honor of his 30-year career in the sport - and in 1998 he was inducted into the Mishawaka Bowling Association Hall of Fame. It also must be noted that Burford was a member of the first black bowling team that participated in a sanctioned league in the Elkhart South Bend area.

As a man, Buford was a proud father of four children; he is survived by Deidre Wardlow, Michelle Hilliard (Donald Wilson), Darwyn A. Hilliard and Douglas P. Hilliard.

He is also survived by two Stepsons; Derek A. Allen and Todd K. Allen. Buford is also survived by seven Grandchildren; Monique, Bryce, Leland, Amanda, Jason, Justin and Iyana. Two Step Grandchildren; Lorraine and Leila and three Great Grandchildren; Serenity, Jayce, Nyla – and a host of Nieces and Nephews.

Buford is also survived by his brother Herbert (Loretta) Hilliard and his very special Aunt - Sylvia Jennings. He is also survived by his former wife FairLilly Hilliard.

In June of 1991 Buford married Mary Ann Allen of South Bend, Indiana. Buford and Mary would go on to share in (32) years of Holy Matrimony. They loved each other dearly and had many years of happiness together.

Buford was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Pamela K. Hilliard, Son-in law Clyde Wardlow and his dear sister Imagene Rembert.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. at Palmer Funeral Home-Guisinger Chapel, 3718 S. Michigan St., South Bend IN. Friends and family may pay their respects from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. A Graveside service will immediately follow at Prairie Street Cemetery, 401 West Hively Street , Elkhart, IN. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.