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He was blessed with the gift of life, and now he has to give it back. Even though his ending was hard, he was a lucky man, who led an amazing life, for this he was grateful.
Tony Windell Hill of Altadena, California and a native of Emporia, Virginia was grateful and most proud of his education, travel, and sobriety. He received his BA in Government and Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia in 1976 and a Master's in Public Administration from the University of Southern California in 1979. He strongly believed that education was the key to advancing in life and traveling was the key to understanding and acceptance. He believed that travel was about change, an introspective process that forces reflection of one's life, a life that he came to be proud of.
He was blessed to have had two birthdays, one where he was born the youngest of 19 siblings on March 12, 1954, to gracious and humble parents, Lanie and Dorothy Hill of Emporia VA. Tony was the baby of the family, and he did not let anyone forget that he was the baby. The other was his sobriety birthday, October 15, 1990, which gave him 30 years of sobriety. He was extremely dedicated to the AA and CA programs and was very sensitive and compassionate to those that were struggling. Through this program, Tony learned about his self-worth and acceptance. He had met and loved some amazing lifelong friends and an amazing sponsor. For those that he sponsored he hoped to leave behind a little inspiration and love. Had it not been for his journey with drugs, Tony would not be the man that he became.
Tony had no children of his own, but he had the privilege of fostering 3 children. This part of his journey led him to learn how to be selfless. Fostering comes with a cloud of uncertainties and unknowns, but Tony learned to give unconditional love. He learned to embrace what was broken and do whatever it took to bring healing to the children and sometimes their families. Together they faced the unknown.
Tony had a lifelong love affair with sweet potato pie, peach cobbler, cake, a great donut, oatmeal raisin cookies, peanuts, milkshakes, and let's not forget the ice cream, but who doesn't like dessert! While Tony loved food, he was also a basketball and football enthusiast. He also had an appreciation for the Arts, going to plays, the Alvin Alley Dance Troup, and the Pan American Film Festival. He believed in supporting Black and minority-owned businesses and Cultures. He also enjoyed music and playing the piano. While he enjoyed all genres of music, he especially loved gospel music which stemmed from his humble beginnings and being raised in the church. But what he loved most was the gift of time because it gave him time to do and give more for those in need. He's always said that he's lived a great life and had great jobs, and he especially loved his most current job working for the County of Los Angeles for 18 years. He said that it made him feel that he was serving his purpose, and the money did not hurt! "Thank God for the County" he would say when he received a check in the mail. He was very caring with a big heart, a hearty laugh, and a big smile.
He Leaves behind a sister, Magdalene H. Ramsey of Emporia Va, two brothers, Moses Hill of Brooklyn, NY, and Alfred W. Hill of Richmond Va, a host of nieces and nephews, and many friends who loved him dearly.
Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mr. Hill's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family.
The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide
"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"
to the family of Mr. Tony Windell Hill.
We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer.
"Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Tony Windell Hill, please visit our floral store.