James was born April 6, 1948 in El Dorado, Arkansas to Johnny and Gordie W. Hill. He was born into a large family, the sixth of seven children. He grew up in Junction City, Arkansas, where he was surrounded by many family members. He said he couldn’t get into much trouble because “Everybody knew you and everybody knew your parents.” He attended school in Junction City with his siblings, as education was very important to his parents.
James was known by his nickname “Rickey” by his siblings, family and friends in Arkansas. He was one who could be found having fun and joking around. He also was one who enjoyed being alone, especially when he was watching TV. He loved playing baseball and basketball and hearing his father sing gospel songs during group practice.
He graduated from Rosenwald High School in Junction City, Arkansas in May of 1966. After graduation he signed up with Job Corp and was later assigned to Utah for training and work. When an unexpected job opportunity opened up as a summer youth counselor he stayed. His ability to work with others was recognized, leading to a degree in social work and subsequent career helping others. He worked at Job Corp, Decker Lake Youth Center, and the Department of Workforce Services.
James met Christine Buehner at USU where they were both enrolled. Chris’s penchant for fun attracted Jim, as well as her excellent cooking. Their friendship blossomed into love, and they were married August 23 1980. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple July 31, 1993. The love Chris had for children meant that their home was filled with nieces, nephews, and little neighbor friends on a regular basis, and Chris and Jim were much sought-after guests at birthday parties. In the Forest Dale Ward, Jim served with the Primary and Young Men organizations.
James cared unwaveringly for Chris during her health challenges until her death in 1997. When friends would later ask if he’d considered dating, he would reply, “I’m already married.” He continued to live in the home they shared until his own recent health difficulties.
He maintained his sense of humor to the end. His memory for details was incredible, and he delighted us with his stories and always made us laugh. Jim loved fishing with his brother-in-law Dave, westerns, “real” jazz, and Almond Joy candy bars.
James is survived by brothers Felton Hill (Earlene), Howard Hill (Dora, deceased), and Terry Hill (Gwendolyn), and sister Priscilla Holiday (Prince, deceased); and Chris’s siblings Kathleen (Kent) Mortensen, Steven (Nancy) Buehner, David (Colleen) Buehner, Eileen (Leon) Tate, Debra Rushton (Russell, deceased), and Mark (Cara) Buehner. Preceded in death by his parents, Gordie Hill and Johnny Hill; wife, Christine Buehner Hill; brother John Hill (Tina, living), and sister Claudia Faye Alexander (Leroy).
Our thanks to the staff at the Beehive Home of Draper and to his nurses from Horizon Home Health and Hospice for care rendered to Jim. He was blessed by your skill and compassion.
Funeral services will be Saturday, January 26, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 South Highland Drive, Salt Lake City. A visitation will be held prior to the funeral services from 9:45-10:45 AM.
