Lennart Hilding

Lennart Sixten Hilding, 87, of Columbus, GA died Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at St. Francis Hospital.

Lennart was born September 16, 1938 in Brooklyn, New York to the late Sixten and Lilly O. Hilding. He loved his life in Brooklyn. He grew up surrounded by children of the same age and loved being a part of the world’s “melting pot.” He enjoyed stick ball with his friends and studying mathematics and the sciences. He was also a beautiful writer. A true friend, he remained close to several friends well into adulthood. He would often say he grew up during the best era in the best city at the time and wish he could share that with his family.He graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.He served as an E3 for 4 years in the Air Force and then transitioned to Chief Engineer of the Merchant Marine for the remainder of his career.

He loved exploring the world and serving others. In each country, he would immerse himself in the culture and personally serve the people. He picked up languages easily and became proficient in several. He used his skills in physics and engineering to lead his crew. He was a true leader.

He met the love of his life, Lien Nguyen in Georgia where he would spend the remainder of his life. The couple was married for over 40 years and were members of Rose Hill Baptist Church.He was a devoted husband and the best father to his two girls. He showered his family with love and support daily and instilled in his girls the importance of loving this world, being kind,appreciating different cultures, and inspired them to pursue careers in STEM.

Lennart (“Lenny”) was preceded in death by his parents - Sixten & Lilly O. Hilding, stepfather, I. Ueland, brother, Roy Hilding, and brother in law, Dung Nguyen. 

Lennart is survived by his wife - Lien Hilding; daughters, Lilly L. Hilding, Pharm D & Leslie Mitcham, MD; son-in-law, Elijah Mitcham, MD; granddaughter - Avery; grand-pug, Winston; nieces, Karen, Maria &, Olivia; nephews, Paul, Jack, Richard, Raymond, Michael, Hung, & Alan; brother-in-laws; and several great-nieces & great-nephews.

He will be greatly missed. He will always be remembered as the most brilliant man with a kind and loving heart. He was always the one to bring others together and his jovial personality could keep others laughing for hours. He will be missed and forever loved.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Feeding the Valley to continue his philanthropic effort of feeding the world or to any organization supporting the advancement of science.