CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF HANSEL L. HILBURN 1926- 2014

Mrs. Hansel Lodeen Hilburn was born on September 12, 1926, to the late Olie Connor Mitchell, Sr. and Martha Butler Mitchell. She was affectionately known and referred to amongst her family and friends as Lodeen. Lodeen’s spiritual walk in life began at Mt. Zion C.M.E. Church, which she attended throughout her childhood in Tyler, Texas. Lodeen graduated from Jackson High School and continued her education by attaining a B.A. degree in Education from Texas College, also in Tyler, Texas. She later earned her Master’s degree in Education from North Texas State University in Denton, Texas. Lodeen was united in matrimony to the late Elzia Hilburn for 51 years prior to the time of his passing. Lodeen and Elzia were blessed with four children, Vincent K. Mitchell, Keith M. Hilburn, Vernita K. Smith and Loria R. Davis.

Lodeen passionately pursued an exemplary career in elementary education that extended through several school districts including the Wilmer Hutchins School District and concluding at Priscilla Tyler Elementary in the Dallas Independent School District. Lodeen cared deeply for the students whom she taught as she sought to provide them with skills that would have an impact on their lives and careers. Her strong dedication and commitment to education stretched over 40 years. Her tenure in education included twice being recognized as the Teacher of the Year.

Lodeen was also active in her community. First and foremost, she never wavered in her walk with Christ. She was an active member of Cedar Crest Cathedral C.M.E. Church throughout her life. She faithfully served on numerous committees including the Stewardess Board, Usher Board and Treasury Committee. Lodeen was a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She pledged the graduate chapter of Alpha Xi Omega in 1964 and was honored as a Silver Soror in 1989. She was also a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, an organization committed to women educators. Lodeen continued active roles in these organizations and activities until illness precluded her from participating.

Following retirement from the Dallas Independent District, she busied her days spending time with family and friends. This included siblings, children, and grandchildren. She also enjoyed bowling and quilting. Making quilts for her grandchildren was one of her favorite pastimes, (her grandchildren still enjoy those quilts to this very day).

Lodeen was preceded in death by her parents and husband; brother, Olie C. Mitchell, Jr.; and her sisters, Evelyn Mosley, Wilhimaner Jackson, Johnnie W. Square, Jessie Maw Wooten, and Delia E. Mauldin. Left to cherish her memory is her brother, James E. Mitchell; her daughters, Vernita K. Smith and Loria R. Davis; sons, Vincent K. Mitchell and Keith Hilburn; nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

As the matriarch of her family, Lodeen was dearly loved and a respected member of her community. Lodeen will be truly missed.