

10.07.1965 - 10.26.2026
Michael Robert Hill, age 61 of Sherwood, traded in his earthly passport for his next great expedition on October 26th, 2026. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, having successfully squeezed every ounce of adventure out of his years on earth.
Born on October 7th, 1965 in North Little Rock to Sandy and Joan Hill, Mike never met a horizon he didn't want to chase or a boundary he didn't want to test.
Mike truly lived a hundred lives in one. Whether he was racing dirt bikes, traveling the world or
telling wild stories around a campfire, he approached every day with an untamed curiosity and an infectious laugh. A lot of Mike's favorite times were spent fishing and hunting with family and friends. He started early when he hid away in the back of a truck to go hunting with his Grandpa and Uncles, when he was 'too young'.
His career and hobbies were as colorful as his character. Over the years, he was a Crew Chief in the Rock and Roll industry, and welder/fabricator, among many other trades. To him, work was just a way to fund his next story. He was a collector of experiences, with many stories of adventure, and a man who knew that a safe life was a boring one. Mike was known on the road as "Jelly" and was described as 'legendary' with those who came to know him in his travels to Japan, Africa and Columbia as he toured with the famous greats of all time. From
Rock and Roll tours , presidential elections, tv events and the Mountain Dew Action Sports Tour, Mike led quite the life.
He was famous for his unbeatable barbecue recipes and his ability to make friends with a
stranger in minutes.
Beneath the restless spirit was a fiercely loyal heart. He is survived by his wife Renee, who was his ultimate love for 35 years; his daughter Kristin Nicole James, whom he taught to love deeply and laugh loudly; and his grandchildren Kaleb B James, Keegan B Dille and Kiya B Dille who will inherit his rebellious streak. He also leaves behind a global network of friends and family who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Troy and Flora Wilson of Sherwood and Joe and Lillie Bell Hill of Austin, and his father Sandy Hill of Cabot.
Per Mike's explicit instructions, there will be no somber, quiet mourning. Instead, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. That updated information will be posted here... Please bring your best story about him.
Later, Mike's ashes will be flown to Colorado and released over the Rockies by his dear friend Ryan and beloved cousin Matthew as his final wish.
In lieu of flowers, Mike would have preferred you take an impromptu road trip, hold up a drink to the sky for a toast, or do something a little fun in his honor.
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