From Columbia to the World Stage: The Life of Os Hillman
Born on a warm summer day, July 21, 1952, in Columbia, SC, Omar Smallwood Hillman III, affectionately known as “Os,” embarked on a journey that would take him from the sports fields of South Carolina to the global stage of faith and business. As the fourth of five children to Sunny and Lillian Hillman, Os grew up in a family where business and sports were part of the daily fabric. His father, a prominent businessman, owned Hillman Sporting Goods, a staple in downtown Columbia.
Early Years: A Sporting Prodigy
Os’s childhood was marked by the echoing sounds of bouncing basketballs and the serene greens of golf courses. He attended local schools in Columbia, graduating from A.C. Flora High School in 1970. His high school years were not just about academics; Os shone brightly in sports. He was a key player on the basketball team, leading them to a 4A high school state championship in 1969. Not just content with one sport, he also excelled in golf, contributing to the team’s state championship win in 1970.
Golf wasn’t just a pastime for Os; it was a passion ignited by his father at the tender age of 11. By 14, he was a junior golf sensation, boasting three hole-in-ones and multiple rounds under 70, even breaking the record at his home course. His talent took him to the 1967 US Junior Amateur in Boston, a significant milestone in his early sporting career.
Tragedy and Triumph
However, life threw a curveball when Os’s father tragically died in a plane crash, a devastating event that also led to the eventual bankruptcy of his business. Despite this, Os’s resilience shone through. He earned a four-year golf scholarship at the University of South Carolina, where he had a modestly successful college career before turning professional.
A New Chapter: Faith and Family
In 1975, Os’s life took a transformative turn when he became a Christian, influenced by Pastor Jim Mezick in North Myrtle Beach. This new faith journey led him to meet Diane at Calvary Bible School in California. They married in 1980 and had a daughter, Charis, but the marriage ended in 1996. Os remarried Angie, but this marriage too ended after a decade. It wasn’t until 2016 that Os found love again, marrying Pamela.
A Career Shift: From Golf to Marketing
Leaving the professional golf scene, Os ventured into sales and marketing. He started at a printing company, then moved to selling advertising for a Christian magazine, and finally to a local ad agency. In 1983, Os launched his own agency, The Aslan Group, serving prestigious clients and winning numerous awards. However, in 1994, Os faced a major crisis, a victim of a Bernie Madoff-like scam, leading to the closure of his agency.
Rising from Adversity: A New Mission
This crisis, however, was the catalyst for Os’s next chapter. He emerged as a leading figure in the faith@work movement, gaining recognition through appearances on CNBC, NY Times, and other media. Os has spoken in 26 countries, written over 26 books, and started a widely-read daily devotional, TGIF Today God Is First.
Championing the 7 Mountain Movement
Os played a pivotal role in promoting the 7 Mountain Movement, a concept aimed at influencing key societal spheres. He hosted conferences, wrote a book on the subject, and partnered with notable organizations to further this cause.
A Legacy in Words
Os’s literary contributions are vast, ranging from devotionals to books on faith and work. His works, like “Change Agent” and “The 9 to 5 Window,” reflect his journey and insights into integrating faith into everyday life.
Connecting with Os Hillman
Os’s journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of transformation. To delve deeper into his teachings or connect with him, visit his website Today God is First for Powerful Daily Devotionals or reach out directly. His story is not just about overcoming adversity but about using one’s experiences to inspire and lead others.