James Edward Hillstock was born, on April 23, 1954, to the late Sam Hillstock and the late Louise Hillstock, in Spartanburg County. He graduated from Lincoln High School and then enlisted in the United States Army.

James had a pleasant personality and was an overall good person. He was described as being a "Regular Joe". In his younger years, he enjoyed playing basketball. James enjoyed watching country westerns.

He was preceded in death, along with his parents, by his wife, Jacqueline Fowler Hillstock and great-grandson, King Tommie Gilree.

He leaves to cherish memories to a daughter, Treveicha Hillstock of Spartanburg, SC; sister, Dorothy Lee Meadows; grandchildren, Elijah Hillstock-Gilree, Jakeriah Hillstock, and Dallas Hillstock; great-grandchild, Makius Jones-Sanders; caregiver, Michelle Carroll, and host of other relatives and friends.

On the evening of Wednesday, November 8, 2023, James transitioned at the Spartanburg Regional Hospice Home.  He will be missed by his family and friends.