Name: Ray Hill's Celebration of Life
Start: 2026-03-07T16:00:00-05:00
Location: Hitching Post Barn, Inc.

Ray Allen Hill
May 27, 1967 – February 6, 2026
Ray Allen Hill was born on May 27, 1967, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to John Hill and Catherine Romanello. He grew up in Parchment, walking the halls of the schools where he built friendships so deep and true that they remained by his side until his final days.
In 1981, his life changed forever when he met Dawn. It was the beginning of a beautiful love story that led them to the altar on September 1, 1984. From that day on, they built a life rooted in devotion. Their first son, Micheal Allen Hill, arrived on December 13, 1984, followed by Eric Lee Hill on Christmas Eve of 1985. Life wasn’t always perfect, but it was a great life because they loved each other unconditionally. Whether they were camping, tubing, or just enjoying the outdoors, Ray was the steady hand and the heart of every memory made.
In 1994, the Hill family moved to Brooksville, Florida, where Ray began a 30-year legacy at Traveler’s Rest Resort. He started in the grass and dirt of the landscaping crew, worked his way through maintenance, became the Golf Course Superintendent, and eventually served as General Manager. Ray didn’t just work at Traveler’s Rest; he poured his soul into it. To the volunteers and the community there, he wasn't just a boss—he was family.
On January 15, 1997, Kimberlee Dawn Hill was born, completing their family. Ray’s love for his children was beyond what words could ever express; they were his whole life, his pride, and his reason for everything. He was a man who would do anything for the people he loved, and he leaves behind a plethora of friends who felt that love every day.
Ray fought a brave and tireless battle with cancer for nearly four years. He worked until he simply couldn't anymore, driven by the passion he had for his work and his people. He is now finally at peace, loving and hugging his wonderful parents, John and Catherine, and reuniting with the loved ones he had missed so dearly.
Ray shared a very special, unbreakable bond with his siblings: Roy (Jean), Rik (Wendy), Debbie (Randy), and Tami (Scott). In a growing and changing family, Ray was the "main bond"—the glue that brought them all together as One.
When his granddaughter Zarah Renee Hill was born on July 28, 2013, Ray found a new kind of joy. Zarah was his sunshine, giving him a new purpose and so much laughter as his own children began their journeys.
We are so incredibly grateful and blessed to have walked through life with him. Ray was a great Man, a Hero, a devoted Son, a cherished Husband, a proud Father, and the best Papa.
"We love you, Ray. We will never forget all you have done for us and the light you gave to this earth. Love Always and Forever, Your Family."