On March 10, 2026, Mary Jane Hileman was called home following a short illness. She passed peacefully at Palmdale Regional Medical Center, surrounded by the love of family. Mary’s warm heart, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Mary was born on February 25, 1952, in Butte, Montana, to William and Ethel Gohr. She carried the values of kindness, hard work, and compassion throughout her life. In 1974, Mary proudly served her country by joining the United States Air Force, where she worked as an Aircraft Maintenance Specialist. She was honorably discharged in 1975.

Soon after her military service, Mary married the love of her life on April 26, 1975. Together, they built a life centered on love and family. Their daughter, Melissa, was born in July 1976, and the family moved to Ridgecrest in 1977. Their son, Barry, was born in July 1978. After settling in Ridgecrest, Mary became a beloved preschool teacher at Norma Square Preschool and Leaping Lizards. She dedicated many years to nurturing and caring for young children and retired in January 1992. Even in retirement, Mary remained active and engaged in the community, working for several years as an Avon Representative before eventually fully retiring.

In 2017, Barry and Mary moved to Pahrump, Nevada, to enjoy their retirement years together. After the passing of her beloved husband in 2020, Mary returned to Ridgecrest in September 2020 to be closer to her family and lifelong friends.

Mary had a deep love for her community and spent many hours volunteering with the Ridgecrest Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie 3243. The Eagles became an important part of her life and a place where she formed many lifelong friendships. Mary loved bringing people together and was well known for hosting the monthly Bunco nights that so many enjoyed. When she wasn’t rolling dice with friends, she could often be found throwing darts in the weekly league. She was also an avid bowler for many years until a shoulder injury forced her to step away from the lanes. Even then, Mary continued to support the sport she loved by helping her husband manage the bowling league.

Mary’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Barry and Kathy Hileman; her brother, Charlie Gohr (Nita) of Ohio; and her sister, Shirley Watne (Gary) of Washington. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Sophia Rangel of Texas, Dylan Hileman of Nebraska, Brandon Hileman of Texas, Joshua Hoggard of Ridgecrest, and Jocelyn Hoggard of Ridgecrest.

Mary is also lovingly remembered by her dearest friends, who became like family to her: Candy Barton, Trish Wahl, Beth Powell, Nancy and David Jeffres, Tiffany Muncy, Noah Muncy, Anthony Hollis, and many more. She is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, whom she loved dearly.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Barry Hileman Sr. (2020), and her daughter, Melissa Hileman (2021). Though she carried the loss of her husband and daughter deeply, she continued to live with strength, faith, and love for those around her.

Mary will be remembered for her kindness, her laughter, and the way she brought people together. Whether through family gatherings, community events, or simply sharing time with friends, she left a lasting mark on the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Services will be announced at a later date. A reception will follow the services, with details to be shared once arrangements are finalized.

Mary’s legacy of love, friendship, and faith will live on through all those whose lives she touched.