Gaye Elaine Hilson

On Sunday, December 6, 20202, Gaye (Seemann Furr) Hilson concluded her battle with Alzheimer's and experienced the loving embrace of Jesus as he welcomed her home. She was born December 11, 1937, to Howard and Alice Seeman (who, along with her older brother, Howard, preceded her in death). After graduating from Hamline School of Nursing in 1958, she married Larry Furr on September 10, 1960 (who also preceded her in death in 1980). Together, they deeply loved their four children, Charles (Betty) Furr, Sarah (David) Fisher, Suzanne (Britt) Cary, and Matthew (Heidi) Furr. Gaye also adored her grandchildren, Tyler (Lindsay), Drew, Seth, Becca, Izak, Liberty, and Levi. She was so happy to recently meet her great-grandson, Luke (Tyler & Lindsay's son). As a single mom, she worked hard to provide for her kids, while showing those she knew a gracious love and persistent strength. Then, through a fateful game of backgammon and a bowl of popcorn, Gaye met, dated and on February 27, 1983, married Birt Hilson, who she loved and with whom she shared the journey of life until her final moments. In her marriage to Birt, two families joined together. She cherished that God added to her life Pam (Art) Cooper and Marni (Mark) Hepinstall, along with more grandkids, David, Jillian, Candace, Carl and Caris. It's a special thing to be a stepparent/grandparent, a role that Gaye treasured. In addition, she shared her love with two great-grandchildren, Wesley and Joy (Caris and Joshua's children). In her almost 22 years working as a Registered Nurse at North Ottawa Community Hospital, she gave incredible care to many in the community. Colleagues and patients alike knew her laughter and tender compassion as a special gift that brought healing to those in her care. Her gentle compassion was a reflection of the Lord whom she loved and served. In her family and dear friends, she passes on a legacy of tenacious forgiveness, steadfast faith, and the unyielding love of a mother. 2 Timothy 4:7-8 gives beautiful voice to Gaye's current reality. "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day..." While her family and friends grieve, they also celebrate that Gaye's persistent hope is now her eternal joy. During these last days, we were blessed with the care provided by Hospice of North Ottawa Community. Gaye's mission for so much of her life was providing the best care and support to her patients and others who were hurting. That is also the mission of Hospice of North Ottawa. You can honor Gaye's memory with a gift to this wonderful organization.