Herman “Sonny” Hilden III, beloved husband, father, brother, proud PawPaw, and friend passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, in Texas City, Texas at the age of 77.

Sonny was born on August 4, 1948 in Texas City, Texas. Sonny is preceded in death by his parents, Buddy & Virginia Hilden and Jack & Lou Lawler.

Sonny, survived by his loving wife Alana Hilden of 57-years, his children: Suni Kristene Smothers, her husband Tommy, Herman Ted Hilden, his wife Amanda, and William Palmer. His siblings: James “Axle” Hilden, his wife Stephanie, William “Billy” Hilden, his wife Diane, Teresa “Terry” Fails, her husband Dalton, David Hilden and sister Patsy; three grandchildren: Aaron Smothers, Alyssa Smothers, and Codey Hilden; one great-grandson Braxton Askew; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Sonny started in the plumbing industry back in the late 60’s and was supported by ANCO Plumbing. In 1976, Sonny and Axle continued the family business by owning and operating Buddy’s Plumbing Inc. for 40-years.

Sonny retired from Buddy’s Plumbing and became a Plumbing Inspector for the City of Texas City, then became a Building Inspector for Bureau Veritas. Sonny was also an Ordained Deacon of the Baptist Church.

In Sonny’s free time he enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, and gardening.

Sonny’s life journey was filled with strong family ties, friendships, and several memorable moments, where he loved sharing stories with his family and friends.

Sonny was a man of his word and a man who knew the value of hard work, the importance of laughter, and the irreplaceable warmth of spending time with loved ones and friends.

A memorial visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on December 04, 2025, at James Crowder Funeral Home, La Marque. A service will follow at 6:00pm with Pastor Kevin Wiltshire, Chaplin Clay Bowers and Pastor R.L. Calhoun officiating.