Guy Mitchell Hill, Jr. (“Mitch”), 68, died August 27, 2023, after a two and a half year battle with ALS. He passed peacefully at his home in Hendersonville, NC with his family and his cat (Franny) by his side. He was born on November 14, 1954, in Albany, GA to Bonnie Cagle Hill and Guy Mitchell Hill, Sr., while his father was serving as a U.S. Marine.
In 1966, the family was stationed in Miami, FL. He attended Norland Senior High School and graduated in 1972. When he was 19 years old, he met the love of his life, Erin Callahan, and they were married on October 25, 1980.
Their first daughter, Crystal , was born on June 15, 1982. Jackie came along on December 28, 1983, and Carly completed the family on October 10, 1985. Mitch was the best father. His daughters are so proud of him and have always told people that he is the best man on Earth.
Mitch was a proud Papa to his nine grandchildren who loved, respected, and adored him. They will always cherish the memories made with their Papa.
Mitch and Erin may have only had three daughters but there were so many others who thought of him as a father figure. He stepped into that role for his nieces Stefanie Beaubouef, Erica Lawrence-Stample, and Jessica Chance, who he loved so much. He also greatly impacted the lives of so many others that he was more than just “Coach” to. Whether it was on the softball field or in the Dojo, Mitch always had the respect and admiration of all. His calm and reassuring demeanor left a mark on the hearts of everyone he coached.
Mitch was a carpenter by trade and retired from the Broward County School Board in January of 2021. He loved working with wood to create beautiful pieces of art (Intarsia). His creations hang on the walls of the ones he loved and will be cherished for years to come. He also was an incredible musician and songwriter and has left us with his written words and recordings.
At the age of 48, Mitch found a new passion in Goju Karate. After 10 years of hard work and dedication he became a black belt, earning his title of Sensei. Shortly thereafter, he was promoted to a second-degree black belt.
Mitch was an artist, musician, coach, mentor, Sensei, and so much more. He was loved and adored by everyone who was lucky enough to know him. He lived his life with love and compassion in his heart. He was a role model for all men and was the ultimate “Girl Dad.” He will be remembered for his kind and gentle spirit.
Mitch is survived by his wife of 43 years, Erin Hill; his daughters: Crystal [Matthew] Brand, Jackie [Jay] Henderson, and Carly [Jovan] Hill; his grandchildren: Frank Kay, Logan Gervais, Gianna Brand, Kendall Gervais, Ava Brand, Brody Henderson, Joseph Henderson, Thomas Henderson, and Jackson Hill; his mother Bonnie Cagle Hill; and his siblings: Michael Hill, Sandra Payne, and Eugene Hill, as well as many Uncles, Aunts, Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins.
When asked how he wanted to be remembered, Mitch said: “I hope when you think of me it brings a smile to your face.”
We will miss him every day.
A service honoring Mitch will be held on October 1, 2023, at Point Lookout Vineyard, 408 Appleola Road, Hendersonville, NC. The service will start promptly at 11:00 a.m. Please arrive 15 minutes early. The room will be closed and private for a relatively short period of time. The family invites anyone who may want to say a few words to do so.
- I AM ALS: https://iamals.org/give/
ALS Association: https://donate.als.org/give/287064/#!/donation/checkout?c_src=jumppage
Condolences may be sent to the Hill family at www.jacksonfuneralservice.com or C/O Jackson Funeral Service 1101 Greenville Highway, Hendersonville, NC 28792. Please include the name of the deceased on the condolence.