Rita Marie Corbusier-Hill

Rita Marie Corbusier-Hill, affectionately known as “Reetz,” “Hill,” or “Ms. Hill,” passed away peacefully with her family by her side on April 18, 2026, in Orange Park, Florida, following a short battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 74 years old.
Born on January 30, 1952, in New York City, New York, Rita lived a life defined by compassion, strength, and a deep love for those around her.
She was a resident of Jacksonville, Florida, for 39 years. Rita was preceded in death by her parents, James Corbusier Sr. and Marie Corbusier.
Rita graduated from the Academy of the Holy Angels in Demarest, New Jersey, and continued her education at Bergen County Community College. She began her career in merchandising before her life’s journey took her to Mexico and Louisiana, eventually settling in Florida, where she built a life centered on family and community.
For more than 25 years, Rita worked with the Duval County School Board, serving both in the front office and with Exceptional Children. Her love for children was evident in everything she did, and she made a lasting impact on countless students, families, and colleagues.
Rita had a generous and nurturing spirit that extended far beyond her work. She was an avid animal lover who never turned away a stray, opening her heart and home to dogs, cats, ducks, raccoons, and more. She found joy in working in her yard, creating a welcoming space, and spending time with her beloved friends and family.
Rita is survived by her loving children: Tara Hill; Kenneth Hill III; Keri (Hill) Atnip and her husband, Steve; and stepdaughter Kimberley (Hill) Shepard and her husband, Jonathan Shepard. She is also lovingly remembered by Kimberley and Jonathan’s children, Austin and Chloe. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Toby and Owen. She is also survived by her dear siblings, Carol (Corbusier) Townsend and her husband, Guy, and James Corbusier Jr. and his wife, Cathe, as well as her nieces and nephews.
Rita’s family finds comfort in the many cherished memories they shared with her, and in the lasting imprint of her kindness, warmth, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A Memorial Gathering to celebrate Rita’s life will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at St. Augustine Church of Christ from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. In lieu of a formal service, this will be a time to visit with family and friends.