Charles Edward “Charlie” Hileman

Charlie “Chuck” Hileman passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. 

Born on Jan. 11, 1933, he was the second of eleven children born to Dock and Susie Hileman of Anna, Ill. 

After graduating in 1951, he entered the Air Force and served from 1952 to 1956. He was a graduate of The American Institute of Baking in Chicago in 1961. 

He retired from Bunny Bread after 30 years, serving as a production manager and vice president. After his retirement, he continued working as a consultant for Fleischmann’s Yeast throughout the United States.

He married Barbara Vaughn on Oct. 6, 1951 and together they raised two children: Connie (Michael) Guetling and David (Robin) Hileman. He was blessed with three grandchildren—David (Kelly) Guetling, Caitlin (Drew) Meny, and Addi (Robbie) Mayes—as well as four great-grandchildren: Carter, Kylie, Nora, and Kenzie. 

Charlie loved spending time with his family, as they were the light of his life.

Together they enjoyed countless beach trips to Indian Rocks Beach, Fla., where a lifetime of memories were made. He also enjoyed many cruises throughout the years with his wife and friends. 

He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan and Indiana University basketball fan (GO HOOSIERS!). 

You could always find Charlie sitting outside on his patio with his family, enjoying their laughter and the sunshine.

He is survived by his wife of over 74 years, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, a number of siblings, and many nieces and nephews. 

His family would like to extend their deepest thanks to Julie Greer and his care team from Heart to Heart Hospice for their compassionate and loving care of Charlie.

A celebration of life visitation took place on Sunday, May 24 at Rendleman Hileman Funeral Home in Jonesboro. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Heart to Heart Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.