Hilda Rose Hemingway

Hilda Rose Hemingway, lovingly known as “Mita” by her granddaughter, passed away

peacefully on May 26, 2025, in Hagerstown, Maryland, just days after celebrating her 93rd

birthday. Born on May 17, 1932, in Jearoldstown, Tennessee, Hilda lived a full and generous life

marked by kindness, faith, and a deep devotion to family and community.

She is survived by her loving son, John Hemingway; her beloved granddaughter, Avelina

Hemingway; her devoted daughter-in-law, Lucia Hemingway; and a wide circle of extended

family members and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Lucille

Deatherage, as well as her four siblings, all of whom she dearly loved.

If you knew Hilda, you knew a woman who never hesitated to lend an ear or a helping hand—no

matter the time of day. She had a gift for making people feel heard and cared for, whether

catching up with neighbors on the porch or sharing a cup of tea with friends.

For 30 years, Hilda served as the secretary at Emmitsburg Elementary School, where she became

a beloved figure to generations of students, staff, and families. Her warmth and dedication

created lifelong friendships, and she took great joy in being recognized around town by former

students who never forgot her.

A devout Catholic, Hilda’s faith was a steady foundation in her life. She delighted in bowling,

tennis, and outings to local restaurants. One of her proudest accomplishments was traveling to

Ireland ten times, forming deep friendships and a second family abroad, with whom she

faithfully kept in touch through handwritten letters.

Hilda cherished being a mother and grandmother above all else. Her son, John, and

granddaughter, Avelina, were the center of her world, and she filled their lives with love,

wisdom, and constant encouragement.

Hilda’s family finds comfort in knowing she would not want others to be burdened with sadness

but instead to remember the love, laughter, and kindness she so freely gave. Her legacy endures

in the countless lives she touched with her compassion, humor, and generous heart.

In keeping with the family’s wishes, all services will be private.