Earl Leroy Hill Jr.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend, Earl lived a life defined by faith, integrity, humility, hard work, and a deep love for those around him. Earl proudly served his country in the United States Navy, carrying with him the values of honor, duty, and service throughout his life.

Earl was born on July 26, 1944, in Nowata, Oklahoma, at Clinic Hospital to Earl Leroy Hill Sr. and Mary Ellen Hill. He was raised alongside his brother, James “Jim” Marion Hill, and carried throughout his life the values of honesty, compassion, perseverance, and service. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved brother.

Earl’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Nelida Hill; his sons, William “Willie” Hill and wife Nikki, Jeff Hill, and Ricky Hill and wife Jamie; his daughters, Jenny Butts and husband Gene, Christina Howell and husband Jack Jr., Crystal Trevino and husband Noe, and Adriana Ortiz; and his cherished grandchildren, Nathan Hill, Sonya Hill, Laney Hill, Lexi Butts, Riley Howell, Ella Ortiz, Amaya Abrone, MaKayla Abrone, and Lee Abrone.

Earl loved his wife deeply, and their marriage was filled with devotion, laughter, and enduring love. Earl also found great joy in the simple moments of life. He and Nelda, both were loyal Texas Rangers fans, cheering them on through every season—whether they won or lost. He enjoyed the game, but more than anything, he enjoyed the memories and conversations that came with it.

One of Earl’s greatest passions was spending time on the lake fishing with his beloved wife. It was more than a hobby; it was a shared passion and a special time they cherished together. Those quiet days on the water reflected the kind of life Earl valued most—peaceful moments, meaningful conversations, and time spent with the love of his life.

As a father and grandfather, he led by example, teaching through his actions that true strength is found in kindness, courage is rooted in integrity, and love is shown through faithfulness and sacrifice.

As a friend and mentor, Earl was dependable, compassionate, and generous with his time and wisdom. He encouraged others, shared his knowledge freely, and made people feel valued and understood.

Earl’s legacy is not measured by possessions or accomplishments, but by the lives he touched, the kindness he showed, and the example he set. He leaves this world better than he found it because he invested in people, loved deeply, and lived with purpose.

Just days before what would have been his 82nd birthday, God called Earl home to a celebration far greater than we could have imagined.

Though he will be deeply missed, his love, laughter, wisdom, and legacy will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16