Born on July 11, 1936, in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, Hilda was the beloved daughter of Anthony Jones and Lena Babineaux Jones.

A true child prodigy, Hilda graduated from high school at the tender age of fifteen after attending Catholic elementary and high schools. Her academic brilliance continued to shine as she graduated Magna Cum Laude from Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English/ Library Science and a Master of Education in English Education with concentrations in Administration and Supervision. Answering a higher calling, she later earned a Doctor of Theology from Andersonville Baptist Seminary in Camilla, Georgia.

On December 31, 1960, Hilda married the love of her life, Dr. Mack Charles Guillory, Sr. Together they built a marriage marked by faithfulness, partnership, and shared ministry, standing as a testament to enduring love and mutual purpose.

Dr. Guillory dedicated her professional life to education and service. She served with distinction as an English Instructor, Assistant Principal, Guidance Counselor, and Librarian, shaping countless lives through her wisdom, discipline, and compassion. Her commitment to spiritual education was equally profound. She served as Director of Christian Education and Deaconness at both Old Emmanuel Baptist Church and St. Luke Baptist Church, Director-Emeritus of the Calcasieu Union Missionary & Educational Baptist Association and the Louisiana Missionary State Baptist Convention, and former Vice President of the National Baptist Convention, USA Woman’s Auxiliary, influencing women and leaders across the nation.

Ever a visionary, Dr. Guillory founded Heaven- on-Earth Network, a healthcare agency providing in-home personal care services to families in Lake Charles and Mamou, Louisiana. Through this work, she extended dignity, compassion, and practical care to those most in need, embodying her belief that faith must be lived out through service.

Dr. Hilda Jones Guillory leaves to cherish her memory her devoted and faithful husband, Dr. Mack C. Guillory, Sr.; five beloved children: Sonya Renee Richardson (Gilbert), Ursula Yvette Christian, Mack Charles Guillory, Jr. (Rene), Yolanda Sevetra Morris (Billy Ray), Myron Cordell Guillory (Courtney); sixteen grandchildren; nine great- grandchildren; and one bonus daughter, Julie Kaye Simien (Joe). She is also lovingly remembered by her seven siblings, extended family, spiritual daughters, students, and all whose lives were enriched by her presence.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, one son-in-law, one great-granddaughter, and six siblings.

Dr. Guillory’s life was a living sermon— marked by excellence, intellect, service, and unshakable faith. Her legacy will continue to speak through generations, reminding all who knew her that a life rooted in God, learning, and love truly leaves Heaven on Earth.

Dr. Guillory’s life reflected a deep and abiding faith in God’s promises. She lived as one who understood that “those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles” (Isaiah 40:31). Having fought the good fight, finished her course, and kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7), she now receives her eternal reward. While we grieve her absence, we celebrate a life poured out in service, excellence, and unwavering devotion to God and humanity.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Church of The King. Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens under the direction of King’s Funeral Home.