Whitt Hillard Hirlston, age 97, of Hazel Green, AL, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2026. He was born on January 18, 1929, to the late James Monroe and Ella Lee Jones Hirlston. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife: Rosie May Hirlston; son-in-law, Ron Shaffer; two sisters: Eula Honea and Kathleen Edwards and two brothers: Frank Hirlston and Harlon Hirlston. Mr. Hirlston was a retired press operator for NASA and was a veteran of the U.S. Airforce.

Survivors include two daughters: Sandie Shaffer and Amanda (Sean) Linnihan and three grandchildren: Emily Shaffer, Kelley Shaffer, and Catherine Linnihan.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., in the chapel of Gallant – Riverview Funeral Home with Rev. Benny Berry officiating. Burial will follow in Lincoln Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Gallant-Riverview Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Whitt Hillard Hirlston.