Thomas Gerald Hilyard

Thomas Gerald Hilyard, age 63, of Tecumseh, MI, passed away March 26, 2026, at home. He was born November 30, 1962, in Adrian, MI, the son of Harold Hilyard and Helen Farnham. Thomas graduated in 1981 from Tecumseh High School then went on to complete some college. Thomas served in the US army for 2 years. He was very passionate about his country and was very proud of his time in the service. Thomas spent 15 years as a truck driver then moved on to a different career which became his passion. Thomas took on the role of Santa Claus at the Adrian Mall for over 25+ years until the mall's shutdown. He has affected so many lives throughout the years and brought holiday cheer to many children and watched them grow into adults. Thomas was also a bus driver for over 15 years. He worked as ‘Tunnel Tom’ at Stagecoach Stop for numerous years as well. He didn’t take being Santa Claus or Tunnel Tom lightly; it meant the world to him. Whether it was attending sporting events, random visits, or going out for lunch; one of Thomas’s greatest joys in life were his grandchildren. Thomas is survived by his three sons, Thomas (Amy) Hilyard, Anthony (Jenny) Hilyard, Chrisopher (Jessica) Hilyard; his mother, Helen; seven grandchildren, Ethan, Brooklyn, Logan, Madisen, Carter, Cleo, and Maverick; his siblings, Ron Hilyard, Byron Hilyard, Laurie Luce, and Alyson Pate; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father, Harold Hilyard, one sister, Lelah Hilyard, one son, Jonathon Hilyard; one brother, James Hilyard; and niece, Heather Withrow. Memorial Services will be held 4:00 PM Monday, April 6, 2026 at Purse Funeral Home, 2959 N. Adrian Hwy, Adrian, MI, with Rev. William VanValkenburg officiating.  Military Honors will be performed by the Tecumseh American Legion & VFW Honor Guard. Visitation will also be on Monday from 2:00 PM until the time of service at the Purse Funeral Home in Adrian, MI.  www.PurseFuneralHome.com

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