Mary Isabelle Blue Hilliard

Mary Isabelle Blue Hilliard, 95, died December 27, 2006, at home in the Big Bear Valley, San Bernardino County, CA. She was born May 13, 1911, at home in La Rue, Marion County, OH.

Isabelle’s long life included high athletic and intellectual achievements in tennis, golf, bowling and international-level bridge. She first hiked the Big Bear Valley and the Eastern Sierra in the 1920s and enjoyed camping and fishing, at which she also excelled.

Isabelle’s only marriage lasted over 50 years, ending too soon when husband Hugh died in 1987. Isabelle and Hugh had two children, who both survive her, as do many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Isabelle was instrumental during World War Two in Sao Paulo, Brazil, organizing the production and distribution of first aid and surgical bandages for the Allied armed forces, especially the Brazilian combat troops who fought in the European Theater.

Isabelle was very involved in community and fraternity service and activities and particularly enjoyed giving of her time and many talents to her churches and the so-called “Pink Ladies” at hospitals wherever she resided in the world. She was also active in charitable work as well as the Order of Eastern Star.

Private services will be held in the Big Bear Valley, Fallbrook and Chatsworth, CA.