David M. Hilliard 1937-2026

He was born Dec. 14, 1937, in New Castle, Pa., a son of the late Raymond L. and Edith Miles Hilliard.

David spent more than 60 years doing what he loved as a barber in Beaver Falls, Pa. To many, his barbershop was more than just a place to get a haircut — it was a place to catch up, swap stories and feel at home. He took great pride in his work and in the relationships he built over the decades. One story he especially enjoyed sharing was that he regularly cut the hair of football legend Joe Namath, always treating him just like any other client and never expecting anything in return — simply doing his job with the same quiet professionalism he showed everyone.

David was a man of deep faith and was an active member of Poland United Methodist Church (PUMC) for over 50 years. His church meant a great deal to him and he found comfort, purpose and friendship through his involvement there.

He also had a lifelong passion for history and archaeology. David loved arrowhead hunting and collecting and was a proud member of both the King Beaver Archaeology Society and the Mahoning County Archaeology Society. A true history buff, he owned hundreds of history books and could spend hours reading and learning. He believed strongly in preserving the past and was proud to support that mission through donations and sharing his knowledge with others.

When he wasn’t reading or out exploring, David could often be found cheering on his favorite teams — the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

David lived a life rooted in hard work, curiosity, faith and community, and he will be remembered for his kindness, humility and the genuine way he treated everyone he met.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his children, Patrick Pivarnik, Kelly Laurie and Matthew Hilliard; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan Hilliard, and his brothers, Raymond and Robert Hilliard.

Friends and family will be received from 10 to 11:45 a.m. Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland, followed immediately by a funeral service beginning at noon. He will be laid to rest in Poland Riverside Cemetery.

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send the family condolences and share your memories.

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