Lelia Mae Hill

Lelia Mae Hill, 80, passed away on May 6, 2026. Born on August 27, 1945, in South Carolina as Lelia Mae Brown, she carried through life a steady grace and a deeply thoughtful spirit that made her both beloved and cherished by those who knew her.

In her late teen years, Lelia moved to New Jersey, where she graduated from Steinert High School in Hamilton Township, NJ. She later worked with dedication at the General Motors Corporation Fisher Body automotive manufacturing plant in Ewing Township, NJ, known as a hard-working and honest presence who met each day with quiet strength and care.

Lelia was the daughter of John Henry and Ada Mae Brown, and was previously married to the late Sanders Hill. She is survived by her son, Shawn Hill; daughter-in-law, Chikako Hill; six grandsons, Shawn K., Christopher and Elijah Hill, Deante Dupree, Keith Sampson, and Adrian Jimenez; and one surviving brother, Stanley Brown. She was predeceased by her parents; seven brothers, John, Willman, Arthur, Robert, Lester, Willie, and Tommy Lee Brown; and two sisters, Lizzie Mae Williams and Inez Hutto.

A compassionate and generous woman of remarkable skill, Lelia was an immensely talented baker, seamstress, and upholsterer—widely known in her community for work that combined high quality with true accessibility. Her wisdom showed not only in what she made, but in how she lived: faithfully giving of herself, offering thoughtful counsel, and sharing honest, steady advice that others trusted. Many will remember her miraculously affordable high-fashion garments and her locally famous annual holiday bake sales—traditions that reflected both her gifts and her generous heart.

Lelia was also an active congregation member of the Islamic Center of Ewing, where her faithful presence and considerate nature were felt and appreciated.

The family extends sincere gratitude to all the family and friends that she cared for, and those that cared for her.

As we remember her life and face the sorrowful challenges of the days ahead, think of what she would say to you in that moment. Likely it would be words of encouragement reminding you to hold your head high, be strong and do something useful. Let us all go forward and make her proud.

Lelia resided in Escondido, California.