Sue (Hilliard) Tighe

Sue Hilliard Tighe, age 80, of Sanford, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Genesis Healthcare.

She was born in Dillon, South Carolina on December 7, 1945 to the late June Hilliard and Lillie Coates Hilliard.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by daughter Lilly Denise Hicks; sister Judy H. Webster; brother Darrell Hilliard and great-granddaughter Ellie Faith Sipe. 

Sue took great pride in her work and truly loved her jobs at Eastern Decor and Bayberry, where she was known for her dedication, kindness, and warm spirit. Outside of work, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures—browsing yard sales, attending Gaither concerts, listening to Southern gospel music, and surrounding herself with flowers. Her garden was a special place of peace and reflection.

A faithful and active member of Kendale Acres Church, Sue devoted much of her life to serving the Lord. She had a passion for music and worship and was honored to lead the church choir, lifting hearts through song and praise. Above all else, her family meant everything to her. Time spent together was precious, and she cherished every moment—whether sharing laughter, stories, or quiet companionship. Her love and presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those whose lives she touched.

She is survived by her loving children Sherry Gordon (Bobby)  of Bear Creek, Mitchell Hicks of Sanford and Russell Tighe of Sanford; grandchildren Taylor Townsend (Dean), Dakota Gordon (Rhonda), Cambria Sipe (Jimmy), Sarah Hicks, Austin Unik and Matthew Unik and her “tribe” of great-grandchildren Sophie, Lorelei, Hunner, Samuel, Carter and Easton.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home.  The funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Kendale Acres Church with Rev. Doug Western and Rev. Billy Keith officiating.  Burial will follow in Hickory Grove Baptist Church Cemetery (17721 NC 902, Bear Creek, NC),

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