Donald D. Hill

DONALD DeWAYNE HILL SR., 88, passed away July, 1, 2017 in St. Petersburg, Florida. Don was born on May 31, 1929 in Nashville, Michigan. He graduated High School and joined the United States Navy. He was serving in the Navy when he met his wife Marilyn. They married on her birthday in 1956. In 1960 they moved to Florida. Don became a Tampa Police Office and in 1963, he and his best friend were the lead motorcycle officers for President Kennedy’s motorcade during his visit to Tampa. This was an extremely proud day for Don. In 1970, Don and his family moved to Gulfport, Florida. He was a Sergeant with the South Pasadena Police Department and later was an officer with the Gulfport Police Department. In 1972 Don became the first Chief of Security for St. Anthony’s Hospital. After that, Don worked many years with Marilyn at her ceramics shop. Don’s career finished out with the State of Florida Division of Motor Vehicles where he retired as a License and Registration Inspector.

Don was a member of the VFW, American Legion and the Egypt Temple Shrine. His hobbies included wood working, carving, bowling, reading, square dancing, ballroom dancing, camping, NASCAR and watching for the Rays.

Don loved to ride motorcycles and race cars. He enjoyed boating and fishing too, but most of all ”Poppy” loved to spend time with his grandchildren, great grandchildren, family and friends.

Don is survived by his wife of 61 years, Marilyn; 3 children, Darcy Carpenter, Donald DeWayne Hill Jr. (Shannon), and Debra Skrzypkowiak (Michael); several grandchildren, great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, 2 brothers and 1 sister.

A Celebration of Life held 10 to 2 PM on Saturday, August 12, 2017 at Park Royale Clubhouse, 10611 66th Street N. , Pinellas Park, Florida 33782.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: All Children’s Hospital or the VFW.

Arrangements were made under the direction of Garden Sanctuary Funeral Home, Seminole, FL 33776\727-391-0121.