Jeff Hilson III

Jeff F. Hilson, age 74, died on February 14, 2021 at Kobacker House in Columbus, Ohio. Jeff was born on November 17, 1946 in Columbus, Ohio to parents Jeff and Jeanne Hilson who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death was baby Jeff IV who died in infancy. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Margilee, daughter Laura, sons Alex and Arthur and six grandchildren. He also is survived by his sister, Kristen.

Jeff earned a PhD in Social Studies Education from The Ohio State University in 1980. He was a lifelong learner who read voraciously and wrote daily producing 10 original books and 15 reissued classics. Jeff taught high school history and government classes for Columbus City Schools for 25 years before retiring to pursue his passion for writing. Jeff loved language and wrote wickedly funny poems and alternate lyrics for songs often illustrated with his own drawings. Jeff also was a highly talented woodworker and delighted in crafting furniture, doors, and built-in cabinets for the two houses that he restored. Jeff had a fiercely logical and mechanical mind; he could fix anything as well as dissect and critique ideas. He suffered no fools gladly.

Jeff was a dedicated husband and father who devoted his entire adult life to ensuring his family had everything they needed and most of what they wanted. He celebrated his family’s accomplishments and tirelessly encouraged everyone to be the best that they could be. Jeff will be missed, but his legacy will go on forever.

A private service will be held for immediate family only. In lieu of flowers, donations to Kobacker House Columbus would be welcome.