Hillard Edgerson (Hill), 75, of Rock Island, IL passed away on July 5, 2012 at his home.

Hillard was born June 22, 1937 in Baxter, AR to the parents of Booker T. Edgerson and Mattie Lee (Nelson) Edgerson.

A funeral service will be Wednesday, July 11, at Second Baptist Church in Rock Island.  Visitation will be 10 a.m. with service to follow at 11 a.m.

Hillard started working at the age of thirteen as a paper carrier for the R.I. Argus.

His education began in Davenport and ended by graduating from Rock Island High School.

He was an outstanding athlete until a severe knee injury ended his career.  He worked for International Harvester/Farmall working for 39 years and retiring in 2003.  He loved to be with his family and friends, and to watch the sunset at Sunset Park.

He served on the IH Credit Union Board of Directors and in 1984 became the first African American, Board Chairman.  He was a founder and belonged to the organization of 12 Counts, who brought in entertainment for Quad City Youth with star attractions consisting of:  Ike and Tina Turner, Little Richard and other well known 50’s and 60’s groups, on weekly bases.

Survivors include his mother, Mattie L. Brazier, Rock Island, sister, Cora Ballard, Rock Island; brother, Booker Edgerson, Buffalo, NY, Curtis Edgerson, Rock Island; his long time lady companion and love for many years, Gwendolyn Clark, Racine, WI.  Sons, Lance Carl, Colorado Spring, CO, David Overton, Davenport, IA; daughters, Cheryl DeBose, Houston, TX and Terrie Mattson, Devil Lake, ND; seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.  A host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Booker T. Edgerson.

Condolences may be sent to Orr’s Mortuary, 1326 4th Avenue, Rock Island, IL 61201.