Joan Lee Hilliker

Joan Lee Hilliker, née Churchill, of Cumberland Furnace, Tennessee, passed away on September 22, 2026, at the age of 77.

Born on May 16, 1949, in Woodstock, Vermont, Joan Lee Hilliker lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to others, and a willingness to open her heart and home to those in need. She was the daughter of Ralph Alden Churchill and Gladys Mae Churchill. From an early age, Joan developed the independence, strength and determination that would come to shape so much of her journey.

As a single mother, Joan worked three jobs around the clock to provide for her three children. Her working life was marked by perseverance and sacrifice, and she took on more jobs than could easily be counted in order to meet the needs of her family. Later, when she met her soul mate, Jerry, she left that exhausting pace behind, moved south, and began a new chapter. Together, they built a life working for themselves, sharing both purpose and partnership in the many odd jobs they performed together.

Joan was also known throughout the middle Tennessee area for her love of pool. An avid player, she took particular pride in running local tournaments and in the skill she brought to the table. She was especially proud whenever she beat the male competition, which was a frequent occurrence. Pool was one of the many places where her strong spirit and determination were plainly seen, a trait she passed on to her children.

Beyond her work and interests, Joan is remembered for the care she extended to others. She loved many people from different walks of life and was the kind of person who would take in anyone in need—family, friend, stranger, or any animal that needed help. That generosity of spirit was a defining part of who she was. Her concern for others was not limited by circumstance, and her willingness to help left a lasting impression on those who knew her.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry Calon Hilliker; her father, Ralph Alden Churchill; and her mother, Gladys Mae Churchill.

She is remembered by: her daughter Terry Lynn Tuttle; sons Thomas McFarlin, Jr, (Jennifer) and Timothy McFarlin (Ashleigh); sisters, Jean Hewes (Churchill), Betty Churchill, Carol McBride (Churchill), and Judith Churchill; her brother, James Churchill; and her multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Emmanuel Church, 3384 HWY 48 N, Charlotte, TN 37036, in memory of Joan Lee Hilliker.

There are no arrangements planned at this time.

Arrangements entrusted to Spann Funeral Home & Cremation Services, located in Dickson, Tennessee.

Spann Funeral Home serves families throughout Dickson County including Dickson, Charlotte, Burns, White Bluff, Fairview, Bon Aqua, Lyles, and Cumberland Furnace, as well as other surrounding Middle Tennessee communities.