With great reverence and a heart full of love, we announce the passing of Richard Hill Jr., a cherished husband, father, and friend, who departed this life peacefully in Portsmouth, Ohio, at the age of 89. Born in Portsmouth on April 2, 1935, Richard and Florence (Nee Holbrook) Hill, Sr. Richard was a man of unwavering faith and steadfast devotion, a true testament to living life with purpose and integrity.
Richard’s journey began with a remarkable love story that blossomed in the fourth grade when he met his sweetheart, Ellen “Imogene”, which his older brother tattooed their initials on his arm. He knew immediately that she was his sweetheart. Their bond led them to marry on December 25, 1955, and they celebrated an incredible 69 years together, creating a legacy of love and warmth that will forever resonate within the hearts of their family and friends.
Through every season of life, Richard was the backbone of his family, a gentle provider who always placed God at the center of his heart and home. After dedicating 43 years as a millwright with Detroit Steele, Richard embraced retirement with the same passion he applied to his work. He found joy in traveling with Imogene on a houseboat, exploring the serene waters of the lake, and making countless memories during their trips to Maine with sister in laws and their husbands. When not adventuring, Richard could often be found in his basement, tinkering and fixing things, embodying the spirit of a true craftsman.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Florence (Nee Holbrook) Hill, Sr., and siblings: Emerson, Dules, Orvin, Clendon, Freda, Evelena, Cline, Corena, George and Herman.
Richard is survived by his devoted wife, Ellen “Imogene” (Nee Horne) Hill of Portsmouth, their beloved sons, Keith (Cindy) Smith of Marysville and Kevin (Anessa Meddock) Hill of Gahanna, and loving daughters, Julie (Tim) Hill Toomey of Dublin and Jennifer Hill of Batavia, ten grandchildren: Crystal Hill, Amanda Hill, Rich (Jinnie) Hill, Erica (Jason) Goodwin, Tara (Jonathan) Barbour, Josh (Payton Starks) Hill, The Late Andrea “Andee” Hill, Courtney Turner, Morgan (Justin Andler) Turner, Ryan (Kelsey Arkenau) Turner, twelve great grandchildren: Isaiah, Richard, Ella, Eva, Kayla, Alayna, Jaxon, Jace, Lanson, Charli Jo, Gunner and Hudson, many nieces and nephews, and good friend Darrell Semones.
Visitation will be Friday, December 6, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.
Funeral Service will be at 12:30 PM, all at FC Daehler Mortuary, 915 Ninth Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662. Burial in Siloam Cemetery in South Shore, KY.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in monetary gifts be made to the care of his beloved Ellen “Imogene”, which is a reflection of Richard’s undying commitment to providing for his sweetheart. Gone from our sight but forever in our hearts, Richard Hill Jr. will be remembered not just for the years he lived, but for the love and laughter he shared with us all.
Please visit www.fcdaehlermortuary.com to leave a special memory of Richard or condolences for his family.
