Charles Lee Hillsman was born on September 9, 1947, in Lee County, Georgia. He was the beloved son of the late John Tillman (Pete) Hillsman and Ozie Lee (Dear) Perkins Hillsman.

During the early years of his life, he was educated in the Lee County School System.

Charles was deeply rooted in the soil and was ambitious in all that he did. From the young age of seven years old, he developed an unquenchable passion for farming that endured throughout his lifetime. Over the years, he labored tirelessly at Haley Farms, and later at Nilo Plantation. Whether harvesting pecans, cultivating crops, or simply driving a tractor, he looked upon each task with equal importance and prided himself in a job well done. Charles was an exceptional farmer and an amazing "tree grapher." An extraordinary visual of his work can be found along Highway 91—pecan trees that he personally planted, pruned, and meticulously cared for over the years. Like Charles, his trees were deeply rooted in the soil and were able to withstand two tornadoes and a hurricane. His expertise, creative skills and abilities, and work ethics were second to none. Throughout his life, he gave his ALL.

Often described as a people's person, Charles was a good natured, generous man with a big heart and a pleasure to be around. He enjoyed sharing stories, engaging people in hours of endless conversation, and spending time with his family and friends. His encouraging words and willingness to help others will long be remembered.

On Tuesday, December 11, 2018, Charles departed this earthly life. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his triplet sisters and brother, Dashia, Joyce Ann, and Larry Hillsman; a very special brother, Ulyesse Hillsman, Sr.; and his wife, Essie Mae Hillsman.

He leaves to mourn his passing and celebrate the memories of his life three children, Juanita Hillsman of Albany, GA, Clifford (Reshenda) Hillsman of Montezuma, GA, Jacqueline Hillsman of Albany, GA, and Shamanski Gaines of Atlanta, GA; ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren; six siblings, Annie Ruth Thomas of Albany, GA, Ozie Lee Williams of Newton, GA, Ozie Dell Hillsman of Leesburg, GA, Annie (Michael) Batten of Albany, GA, Paul (Corrine) Hillsman of Taylor County, GA, and Silas (Bertha) Hillsman of Albany, GA; three aunts, Annie Bee Perkins, Laura Perkins, and Sarah Perkins all of Jacksonville, FL; a special friend, Betty Bridges; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends