Donald Myron Hilty

Donald Myron Hilty died on July 4, 2026, peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family. He was 61 years old. Donald was born in Orrville, Ohio on October 21, 1964. He received his Bachelor of Science in biology from Bowling Green State University of Ohio and went on to attend The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, where he began his career as a psychiatrist. He later returned to the University of Cincinnati to complete his MBA. Donald spent the majority of his professional career on faculty at the University of California, Davis where he became known nationally as a pioneer in telepsychiatry. His other later leadership positions included Chief Medical Officer of United Health Services and Heritage Oaks Hospital and Associate Chief of Mental Health, Northern California VA Health Care System. His academic interests concerned all areas of telemedicine, mobile health, artificial intelligence and other digital health-related academic activities. In these areas, he made an outstanding contribution of global importance. Throughout his career he was a prolific researcher and author and was the founding Editor-in-Chief of The Journal of Technology and Behavioral Science working in this role for over a decade. He authored over 200 published articles in peer- reviewed journals, co-edited 6 books and more than 10 special editions of journals as well as numerous book chapters. His influence on his colleagues and his impact on patients and the community was recognized through his professional roles as a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Telemedicine Association, and as a Member of the American College of Psychiatrists. He was also passionate about mentorship, serving as an involved, dedicated mentor to generations of medical students as well as taking an active role in multiple service communities throughout California. Through both his professional and service work, he touched and changed many lives, leaving behind an immeasurable and profound impact. Donald was also an avid runner, logging miles all over the world, and running an impromptu marathon in September 2025. He enjoyed traveling, especially with his daughter, Sarah, and his sister, Carol. He loved playing games with family. He was a lifelong learner, frequenting museums, reading, and approaching life with curiosity. Most often, though, you'd find him out on a walk with his two Yorkies. He is survived by his daughter, Sarah E. Nasatir-Hilty and her wife, Janet E. Wood, his stepchildren, Armani J. Vela and Lilly S. Chisler, siblings Dale M. Hilty, Carol M. Ebersole, Duane M. Hilty, and Cheryl M. Hilty, niece Meredith A. Ebersole, nephew Matthew R. Ebersole, and beloved dogs, Max and Mini. He is predeceased by his parents Marvin S. Hilty and Mary L. Hilty. Donald’s services will be with Gormley & Sons Funeral Chapel located at 2015 Capitol Ave, Sacramento, CA 95811. Visitation hours will be Friday, July 10, 2026, from 4:00pm- 6:00pm. Services will be Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11:00am. The service will be recorded and shared on his CaringBridge page. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to UC Davis Rural Prime Medical Student Scholarship Fund in his memory. Don spent the majority of his career with UC Davis, working closely with this program. It touched every part of his life - as a professional, an educator, a researcher, and also as a patient. The family wishes to thank the staff of UC Davis for the excellent care and compassion he received throughout his cancer journey.