Judith Stewart Hill

Judith Stewart Hill, 69, of Birmingham, passed away peacefully at her home on March 19, 2023, surrounded by her family. Judy was born in Atlanta on February 23, 1954, and moved to Birmingham in 1966. After graduating from Mountain Brook High School in 1972, she attended Auburn University to study visual design. There she met the love of her life, Bert Hill, whom she married in 1978.

Judy’s career began in the advertising industry, where her natural talent was quickly recognized with numerous ADDY awards. Her artistic eye eventually led her, in 1997, to open Henhouse Antiques in English Village with her longtime business partner, Barbara Ashford. Judy, Barbara, and the rest of the “hens” loved visiting England on buying trips for the shop.

Judy’s true passion, above all else, was her family. She loved them deeply. Her devotion to Bert and their three children and eight grandchildren never wavered, even during the last few years when her mind and body began to fail her. Judy was always known and will forever be remembered for her love, selflessness, kindness, and generosity to everyone who knew her.

Judy had a deep, steadfast faith. She was a longtime member of Independent Presbyterian Church in Birmingham where she served in many roles. She was also an active member and former president of The Service Guild of Birmingham.

Judy was preceded in death by her father, Merrill Harpe Stewart, Sr., and mother, Dorothy Rice Stewart. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Charles Bert Hill, Jr. of Birmingham; her children, Charles Bert Hill III (Jamie) of Birmingham, Dr. Richard Stewart Hill (India) of New Orleans, and Elizabeth Hill McGowan (Matthew) of Birmingham; her grandchildren, Charlie (14), Thomas (12) and Caroline (10) Hill, Wade (9), Hill (8) and GiGi (6) McGowan (with whom Judy shared a birthday), and Felix (6) and Simon (4) Hill; her brother, Merrill Harpe Stewart, Jr. of Birmingham; as well as three nieces, two nephews, and numerous cousins.

A memorial service will be held at Independent Presbyterian Church, 3100 Highland Avenue, Birmingham, Alabama 35205 on Friday, March 24th at 2:30 pm with visitation immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Independent Presbyterian Church Foundation. Click on donation link below.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.johnsridoutselmwoodchapel.com for the Hill family.