Roosevelt was born on March 12, 1945 to the late Willie and Ethel Demps Hillsman.  He was a faithful member of Allen Chapel AME Church where he faithfully served as a Trustee, sang in the Male Chorus and was the Church Handyman.  He retired from Seminole County School Board.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Hillsman, Sons: Rodney Hillsman, Frederick (Margo) Hillsman, Michael (Patrice) Dillion, James (Benita) Smith, Eric (Candace) Jackson, Ken (James) Williams, Daughters: Rene(Derreck) James, Melondy Hillsman, Rev. Vicki Williams, Sisters:  Rosa Lee McCoy, Annie Ruth Stephenson, Roberta A Trammell.  Special Friend Gladstone Davison.