H.L. Hiers, Jr.

H.L. Hiers, Jr., 93

H.L. Hiers of Lake Wales passed away Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at his residence.

He was born September 25, 1930 in Bartow to the late Harley and Thelma Hiers; he has been a lifelong resident of the area. H.L. graduated from Summerlin-Bartow High School where he was very active in sports. He was the quarterback of the football team and was the state champion for track in discus, high jump, and high hurdles. H.L. attended the University of Alabama on a track scholarship for one year before returning home to work for his father in citrus. He then received a scholarship to the University of Tampa where he played football, basketball, and baseball. H.L. enlisted into the United States Navy where he was stationed on the USS Intrepid which toured around the Mediterranean Sea. While serving, he played on the Navy basketball team. H.L. finished his education at the University of Tampa with a degree in physical education and social studies. He received his master’s degree in education from Stetson University. H.L. began his career in education at Lake Wales High School where he taught social studies and coached track. He later became the principal of Lake Wales High School in the late 1960’s. During his tenure as track coach, his team won a state championship. H.L. was an avid golfer, he was the Club Champion of the Lake Wales Country Club and played in many tournaments throughout Polk County. He was principal of Hillcrest Elementary School for many years. H.L. was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Lake Wales where he was a lay leader, usher, choir singer, and head of the Methodist Men. He also taught men’s bible class for 25 years. H.L.’s especially enjoyed spending time with his family.

H.L. was preceded in death by his parents, Harley and Thelma Hiers; sister, Joanne Henderson; and brother, David Hiers. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Thalia Whitehurst Hiers; children, Brad Hiers and wife Wendy, Dean Hiers and wife Lynn, and Fran Bean and husband Derek; grandchildren, Bradley Hiers and wife Amanda, Ashley Fallin and husband Mike, Luke Hiers and wife Morgan, Lyle Hiers and wife Summer, Olivia Hiers, Brent Bean, and William Bean; and great-grandchildren, Hannah Grace Hiers, Harrison Hiers, Bennett Hiers, Miller Fallin, Taylor Fallin; and sister, Janice Wolff.

A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 6, 2024 at First United Methodist Church of Lake Wales with Pastor Ron Burks officiating. Interment will follow at Lake Wales Cemetery.