Donna Hilley, one of Music Row's most prominent women executives, has died after a long illness. Hilley spent more than three decades at Sony/ATV Music Publishing and its predecessors — building the company into a major player through several notable acquisitions — before passing the torch to Troy Tomlinson in 2005.

“She was an icon in every sense – an inspiring trailblazer for women executives in the music business, a staunch advocate for artists and songwriters and a genuine competitor who was respected, but never underestimated, by her peers. Sony/ATV is forever better because of Donna’s leadership and immeasurable contributions. Our artists, writers and staff grieve today along with her family on the passing of a compassionate leader and great friend.”

Hilley's death comes a week after former BMI CEO Frances Preston passed away.