HILL, Richard W. Richard W. Hill, of Easton, MA passed away peacefully surrounded by friends and family on February 2, 2020 at the age of 81. Richard was a member of the Southeastern Massachusetts Chapter of the American Guild of Organists and performed in many churches throughout Massachusetts and the greater New England area. He taught for 38 years in the Easton public schools. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sandra M. (Taylor) Hill of Easton, MA. Father of Timothy W. Hill of Japan, Paula E. Hill and her husband Kevin McGuire of Media, PA, and Kristen A. Parrella and her husband Michael of Jackson Heights, Queens, NY; brother of Roger Hill of Orlando, FL, David Hill of Wyoming and Florida and the late Marilyn Alvarnaz; grandfather of Jake, Steven, Miranda, Lillian, and Katherine. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life & Music for Richard will be held at Christ Congregational Church, Brockton in the spring at a date and time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard's memory may be sent to the Organ Fund at Christ Congregational Church, 1350 Pleasant Street, Brockton, MA 02301. For condolences, visit www.kanefuneralhome.com

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Published by Boston Globe from Feb. 5 to Feb. 9, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for RICHARD HILL

28 Entries

Lois Regestein

March 27, 2020

I have known Dick for forty or more years. His boundless enthusiasm for music and particularly the historic American pipe organ were always present. He would agree to play a recital readily and found fascinating repertoire for - sometimes appropriate to the place, or instrument, or just curiously exotic. He was a wonderful friend and able musician who made friends for the pipe organ.
As the able chairman of the Boston AGO organ advisory committee, and enthusiastic organist, he was a true ambassador for the pipe organ.

Dick was one of a kind. He will be gteatly missed.

Ellen Vinciguerra (Blood)

March 27, 2020

Thoughts and prayers to his family. He was my 6th grade teacher and a wonderful man.

Daniel Lamoureux

March 15, 2020

As an organist, I was privileged to work with Dick over a period of 25 years, typically with the Southeastern Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, but sometimes we would just run into each other at a musical event somewhere and have the pleasure of chatting. He was knowledgable about so many things, but he was humble about it and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others; I'm sure he must have been an outstanding teacher. He certainly was a talented musician, but most of all, a kind, gentle man. I wish his family great strength in these days of loss.

Charlie Adler

March 1, 2020

On a winter evening 60 years ago I joined Troop 42 in Raynham at the age of 11. The Scoutmaster, Dick Hill, was my second cousin, but we were not well acquainted, he being about 10 years older. Dick had not yet graduated from Bridgewater State College. But he understood how Scouting, when implemented in keeping with its highest ideals, could make a difference in a kid's life. It certainly made a difference in mine. Lacking athletic prowess and social skills, I was presented with all kinds of new opportunities for personal growth, through the year-round schedule of troop meetings, patrol meetings, skill contests, hikes, camping trips, and service projects on Troop 42's calendar. This active program could never have happened without a well-honed junior leadership system, with young leaders at all levels trained in leadership and expected to carry out their responsibilities. Not only was it a great learning experience, but, under Dick's guidance, it was also lots of fun. The warm memories of those times, and the feelings of gratitude I have for Dick, will be with me always.

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Maura Tyrrell

February 17, 2020

Mr. Hill taught piano to both of our daughters many years ago. I loved going over to pick them up and listen to the last part of the lessons. He was a gentle, patient teacher, who taught far more than the mechanics of piano playing; I still remember some of his comments on the composers of the pieces they played. It was a great joy to hear him play the organ too. Deepest sympathy to Sandy and the children.

John Visnauskis

February 15, 2020

So sorry for your loss. His music was sublime and his teaching was talented. My best to the family. You all will be in my thoughts.

Al Williams

February 14, 2020

I learned of Dick's passing yesterday afternoon at a monthly gathering of a few mid 60 year old friends where we swap stories and enjoy a few cold draft beers. Three of us had Dick as our sixth grade teacher during the 1966 -1967 school year at Center School in Easton.

I could echo all the previous posters and list out the platitudes of his teaching abilities. He was indeed a gifted teacher and I believe that was due to the fact he liked kids and saw all of us as unique individuals. For some of us lucky enough to touch base with him over the years he became a good friend as well.

I could share many stories of our times with "Mr. Hill". During late spring 1967 he pushed aside class work and let the entire class watch the Red Socks in the world series when there were afternoon games. Pretty cool! We also interacted with him through scouting events. We were in a scout troop in Easton and he had his troop in Raynham. We had many joint camping trips together. And during our college years we even shared a beer with him on occasion.

God speed old friend and best teacher ever. My life, like many others, was made better by knowing you!

Dan Shyne

February 11, 2020

I had Mr Hill for 6th grade reading class..He was an awesome teacher..I remember breaks in the course of teaching we would go off and talk about the sox or the celts and he would have funny conversations with us all...And when I was older he was even better to talk to at OA..I lived on Day St and would see him walking downtown and all over while riding my bike(no bike helments back then, early to mid 80s) with friends...hes a part of old Easton and I love that about him...................Dan Shyne

Susan Smith

February 10, 2020

Way back in 1965-66 Mr. Hill was my 6th grade teacher at the old Junior High (yellow brick building on Lincoln). I lived just across the street, so of course I was the last to arrive every morning. He would open the class room window and yell out to me to step on it or I'd be late as I strolled up the walkway. Of course being an adolescent at the time it made me cringe, in retrospect it's quite hilarious. He was a funny guy and I'm sorry to hear of his passing. I wish for his family to find peace in their memories.

Susan & Bob Maffa

February 10, 2020

I was so privileged to have performed with Richard over a span of 30 years. We met shortly after I had graduated from New England Conservatory and became fast friends and musical colleagues. I have so many wonderful memories of concerts, both vocal and bell choir, that we performed together. Richard was such an amazing musician and I'll treasure all those fabulous memories forever. Bob and I offer our deepest condolences to Sandra, Kristin, Paula and Tim and everyone in the Hill family.

Rob Lundberg

February 10, 2020

Moving away from MA in 1986 did not take away the fond memories of specific teachers. Such is the case with Richard Hill. I am so sorry to read of the passing of his passing. He was a teacher of mine when I attended Oliver Ames High School. He was always cordial and a great presence among the faculty.

Know that the Hill family will be in our prayers in the coming days, weeks and months as you remember his life and legacy. He was quite a keyboardist, and a great teacher.

David Hill

February 8, 2020

Richard was my oldest brother. I was very lucky to have grown up with him as much more than a brother. My memories of him in my earlier years are filled with thoughts of his practicing the organ in our home on a two manual electronic organ with pedals. I still enjoy listening to organ music as a result of my exposure to his handiwork. Rich was also a flute player, since he wanted to be in the marching band at Taunton High. But the organ was clearly where he excelled. He began playing for a church in Taunton while still in his teens. Later on, I enjoyed travelling with him on interesting trips. We would often stop in a small town or city by a nice looking church. If it was open, we would go in and many times, if the organ was not locked, he would sit down and begin playing something awesome, like the Toccata and Fugue in D Minor from Bach. Sometimes people would come in the church and sit down to listen. I don't think anyone ever kicked us out of one of these churches.
I my teenage years, I was lucky that Rich was still living at home, although he was 8 years older than me. He became my scoutmaster, and we had countless adventures camping and canoeing all over New England. We also both enjoyed sports, which we inherited from our dad. As avid Celtic and Red Sox fans, we often took in games at the Garden of Fenway together.
Rich planned a weekend scout trip to West Point one year. Unable to find a parent who was willing to drive that far, he drafted my brother, Roger, to help. We left after school on a Friday with two cars full of equipment and boys, and arrived about midnight at Bear Mountain State Park, near West Point. That weekend planted the seed for me that eventually led to my attending West Point.
Rich was a tremendous brother, and an even greater human being. I will remember him always.

Meredith Porter

February 7, 2020

Me. Hill was a gift to so many of us. I was fortunate to have him as my teacher in the 5th and 6th grade. He was animated and passionate about teaching, always going above and beyond for his students. When my brother died in the 6th grade, he was there at the funeral. When I got married, he juggled his schedule to play at our wedding. He was truly the most influential teacher I ever had. We are all better for having known him. My deepest condolences, love, and prayers to all his family.

Nancy Donnelly

February 7, 2020

Dear Sandra - We are very sorry to hear that Dick has died. He was a great musician and a wonderful teacher. He will be missed.
Nancy and Jim Donnelly (Bridgewater)

Robin and Debbie Tillberg

February 7, 2020

To the Hill Family and all having the pleasure of knowing Dick Hill:
We extend to you our deepest sympathies for your loss of this great man. Our first memory of him was entering Unity church as he played wonderfully for a Halloween service. Subsequent musical performances on the organ, piano, and harpsichord were always magnificent and appreciated. The programs he arranged for the choir, the hand bell ringers, our talented youth and guest musicians was amazing. We loved the music program at Unity church!
We have lost a musical wonder and a kind and giving man. May he continue bringing the joy of music to others forever.

Lee York

February 7, 2020

My condolences to the Hill family.
Mr. Hill was my 6th grade teacher. By far, my favorite and most memorable teacher. His passion for education was incredible. I never felt like he was teaching to teach. He wanted us to learn and understand. I loved the way he took teaching beyond the books and classroom.
He told us at the end of the school year that some day (we were 12) we should stop by and have a beer with him on his porch. I regret not taking him up on that offer...
Kristen, thank you for sharing your Dad with us.

Laura-Lee Collard

February 6, 2020

Deepest sympathies to the Hill family during this difficult time. Many memories of Mr. Hill and choir during middle school. i think it was called the Joyful Noise Chorus. Also listening to him play the organ at a Unity Church. Keeping you, Paula, and the rest of your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Ashley Goverman

February 6, 2020

Mr. Hill was a wonderful teacher. I was a very silly young student of piano and organ, and Mr. Hill had a special way of celebrating my impulses. Every year at the recital, he was excited to have me play one verse of the "Can Can Polka" on the organ's foot pedals. I loved it, and so did he. I'm lucky that I got to learn from him, and it's clear that countless others feel the same.

Roger Hall

February 6, 2020

My deepest sympathy to Dick's family on his passing. As Historian of the oldest choral society in America I worked with him back in the 1980s when he accompanied the Old Stoughton Musical Society. It so happens that I will be showing a brief video which includes my conversation with Dick on Sunday, Feb. 9 at the Stoughton Historical Society. I will dedicate my program in Dick's memory and play one of the organ pieces he played so brilliantly in Boston in 1980.

Dianna Servello

February 6, 2020

Our deepest sympathy, from your neighbors The Servello's at 12 Main Street. Had the pleasure of meeting up with Mr Hill over the last several years when he was walking to the church. So sorry to hear of his passing.

Carlton Russell

February 6, 2020

Dear Sandra,

As you know, Dick was an organist colleague of mine for many years, Always supportive, he invited me to play a recital at Unity Church during my first year (1963-64) as college organist at Wheaton. Along the way, I collaborated with him in musical activities that included his accompanying an anthem of mine in an AGO concert. He graciously attended a recital I played at Wheaton in 2009. Reading the other tributes, I can easily believe that he had the same empathy with others whose paths crossed his as he had with me, and gave them the same support.

You have my deepest sympathy at this time of great loss.

Faithfully, with many happy memories of Dick,

Carlton

Deborah Urquhart

February 5, 2020

Mr. Hill leaves so many students that were touched by his kindness and devotion. I had him as my teacher for English and social studies. He made every class come alive. But more important to me is the compassion he had towards me. I had just lost my father within the year. He reached out and took an interest in my music as I played the organ, just like him. I was a quiet girl who was very nervous about making friends. He always made sure I was included. Condolences to his family. Debbie Urquhart

W. Craig Fredericks

February 5, 2020

Dick knew all the best canoe "put in" and "take out" spots from here to Mooselookmeguntic and his favorite poker game was seven-card hi-low. He was my son's Ian and Guy's occasional piano teacher and frequent accompanist and he was my good friend from May 1984, when I joined Unity Church, until forever. Paddle easy Dick. All condolences to Sandra and the family.

Celeste Howe

February 5, 2020

Dear Sandra, Tim, Paula,and Kristen,
I am so sorry and saddened to hear of Dick's passing. I will always treasure the time I spent at Unity in his musical presence. Dick was a sincere joy to be with ~ intelligent and quick witted. We shared an honest and caring relationship and I will always remember his willingness and flexibility in allowing my style of music to be included among the more traditional music of the church. He made church a place I loved to be a part of. His musical contribution was extraordinary and his welcoming loving manner was a reliable treasure.
I will keep you all in my hearts as I know the loss of your husband and father is a very difficult and sorrowful time. My Dad passed last year and while the love endures the missing is so hard. Peace be with you all and may Dick rest in peace with many heralding angels singing and playing his praise. Much love. Celeste

Peter McHugh

February 5, 2020

I had Mr. Hill as my 6th grade teacher back in the 1980's. He was by far the best teacher that I ever had growing up. Many fond memories of that year! He was truly a very gifted teacher. Sincere condolences to his family

Lisa Sparling

February 5, 2020

Sandy

Jay and I are were so sorry to hear of Dick's passing. We are praying for you and the rest of the family.

Love Lisa Sparling

marilyn mears

February 5, 2020

As a member of the Unity Bell Ringers, one of my favorite memories of Dick was after a concert when he proclaimed, "isn't this fun?" He always enjoyed music so much and all the little things too like walking down the street to get a paper and having conversations. We will miss you and your spirit, Dick!

Robert Maffa

February 5, 2020

There is no denying Dicks love of music. However he was a passionate sports fan and loved to talk about all the Boston teams. He also loved getting together with he guys for poker night. Dick was a great part of the community. He was a historian, a musician and a teacher. Throughout the years many of his students would socialize with him long after his retirement. He will be greatly missed and his absence will have a lasting effect on the community.

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