Donald Hill

Donald Lee Hill (Don) peacefully passed away on Tuesday September 6, 2016, at his home after a long struggle with Parkinson's disease. Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, September 9, 2016 at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church with burial following the service at Oakwood Cemetery. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Don was born in Freeport, Texas on October 27, 1932, to John and Lila Hill. He was raised in Baytown, Texas, where he met and married Gladys Kent. He served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. He held the rank of Second Class Petty Officer and was on the USS Essex CVA-9. After his service, he attended the University of Houston where he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Don worked in the Aerospace field where he helped to develop rocket engines. He retired from Alliant Techsystems in 1996. After his professional career, Don found great enjoyment as a substitute teacher for Midway ISD. Don and his family have attended Columbus Avenue Baptist Church since 1966. During that time he was a Sunday school teacher, deacon, and served on a mission team constructing churches. He was also a member of the Kiwanis Club that provides community service. He also enjoyed taking cruises and tours with his wife and friends. His hobbies included boating, golf, and fishing.

He is survived by his wife of sixty years, Gladys Hill, and their two children, Kathy Phillips and husband, Kim Phillips and Dr. Lee Hill. He also leaves behind five grandchildren. They are Hunter Phillips and fiancé, Jordan Liberty , Parker Phillips, Marshall Hill, Garrett Hill, and Travis Hill. Don has one surviving brother, Colonel John Hill Jr. retired and sister in law, Mary Ellen Smoke , brother in law, Grady and wife, Dodi Kent.

The Family would like to thank Providence Hospice and two very special caregivers, Selina and Maria. Anyone who knew Don will always remember his kind nature and ability to empathize with people. He lived by the Word and will be greatly missed by those who had the pleasure of knowing him. His family loved him dearly and will always hold his memories close to their hearts.

Visitation

10:00 - a.m. ,Friday, September 9, 2016
Columbus Ave Baptist Church
1300 Columbus Ave. Waco, TX 76705

Chapel Service

11:00 - a.m. ,Friday, September 9, 2016
Columbus Ave Baptist Church
1300 Columbus Ave. Waco, TX 76705

Interment

12:00 - p.m. ,Friday, September 9, 2016
Oakwood Cemetery
2124 S. 5th Waco, Tx 76706