Greg Hillis Obituary, Death – Gregory K. Hillis, a beloved husband, father, scholar, and teacher, passed away at the age of 49 on October 8, 2024, after an eleven-month battle with cancer. His life, while tragically cut short, was rich in love, faith, and academic dedication, leaving an indelible mark on his family, friends, students, and colleagues.
Born on May 1, 1975, to Jeanne Hughes and Bruce Hillis, Greg grew up in the small town of Rimbey, Alberta, and later in Kananaskis Country in the Rocky Mountains. He pursued his higher education in Calgary at Rocky Mountain College, where he met Kim Kauffeldt, the love of his life. Their marriage would bring them three children: Isaac, Sam, and Leo, all of whom Greg cherished deeply.
His academic journey, sparked by an early fascination with theology and the writings of American Trappist monk Thomas Merton, led Greg to pursue further studies at the University of Waterloo and later McMaster University, where he earned his Ph.D. His deep personal engagement with theology culminated in his conversion to Catholicism in 2007, a significant milestone in his spiritual and intellectual journey.
Greg joined Bellarmine University in Louisville, KY, as a professor of historical theology. His passion for teaching and his genuine care for his students made him a revered figure on campus. His classes were known for fostering intellectual curiosity, confidence, and an appreciation for life’s meaning and purpose. Students often spoke of his wisdom, humility, and ability to offer thoughtful guidance without imposing certainty, maintaining relationships with him long after graduation.
Beyond the classroom, Greg’s scholarship flourished. His admiration for Thomas Merton inspired his award-winning biography *Man of Dialogue: Thomas Merton’s Catholic Vision*, which was honored by the Catholic Media Association in 2022. In Merton’s example, Greg found a profound connection between faith and openness to the world, a theme that resonated throughout his work and life.
In 2023, Greg accepted the role of Executive Director at the Aquinas Center of Theology at Emory University, marking a new chapter in his life. Though his time there was tragically brief due to his cancer diagnosis, Greg found comfort in the community he encountered.
Greg Hillis leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and intellectual generosity. His impact on those who knew him and the students he taught will endure for years to come.
