James "Jim" Paul Hyland

Deacon James (Jim) Paul Hyland, 83, passed away peacefully at his home in Rock Hill, SC, on Wednesday, February 19, 2026. Born on October 12, 1942, at St. Francis Hospital in Charleston, SC, he was the son of the late James Dennis Hyland and Nora Heard Hyland.

Jim was a graduate of Belmont Abbey College and became a member of the Rock Hill Oratory in the early 1960s. He was a proud advocate of the Civil Rights Movement, a cause he held dear throughout his life. After leaving the Oratory in 1974, Jim married the love of his life, Deborah Ashworth, in 1975. They celebrated 50 years of marriage in October 2025.

In February 1976, Jim joined the Rock Hill Police Department, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 1997. A devoted servant of the Catholic Church, Jim was ordained as a Catholic Deacon on June 23, 1993, at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Charleston, SC. He continued his service to the Church as a pastoral associate at St. Anne Catholic Community, where he remained active for many years. Jim also held various roles within the Diocese of Charleston. He also served as a Chaplain with the Rock Hill Police Department after his retirement.

Jim’s commitment to his community was evident through his involvement in numerous nonprofit boards in York County. He was a charter member of the St. Anne Knights of Columbus and the York County Lodge #15 Fraternal Order of Police. He also served as a constable with the York County Sheriff's Office and as a librarian at St. Anne Catholic School. Above all, Jim's greatest accomplishment and pride was his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Frances Hyland Colson. He is survived by his wife, Deborah (Debbie); his daughters, Angela Hyland Wells, Amanda Hyland Alderfer (Robert), and Ashley Hyland; his granddaughters, Olivia Wells and Page Alderfer; and his brother, Steven L. Hyland (Betsy) of Charleston, SC. Jim was a proud uncle and godfather to many nieces and nephews, and an honorary grandfather to several families in Rock Hill.

Jim was deeply loved by his church, family, and community, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Visitation and Memorial Gathering 
The family invites friends and loved ones to visit and share memories of Jim on Sunday, February 22, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the home of Eddie and Barbara Hammond, located at 1324 Leland Court, York, SC 29745. The family asks that you wear a Hawaiian or bright-colored shirt in honor of Jim, a man who loved his cruises and vibrant shirts.

Funeral Mass 
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Jim's honor on Wednesday, February 25, at 11:00 AM at St. Anne Catholic Church, 1694 Bird Street, Rock Hill, SC. The Mass will be a celebration of his life, officiated by members of the Rock Hill Oratory and Deanery. The Knights of Columbus and Rock Hill Police Honor Guard will be present to honor his memory.

In Lieu of Flowers
In recognition of Jim’s lifelong commitment to service, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity or nonprofit of your choice in his honor.