Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Jesse Hill Obituary
Hill had a close relationship with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and helped make sure his legacy would be remembered, according to Steve Klein, a spokesman for the King Center, where Hill served as chairman of the board of directors from 1979 to 1993.
"He was very instrumental in developing the growth of the King Center and really a giant in Atlanta civic affairs," Klein said. "I don't think you could think of a major civic project in Atlanta for the last 20 or 30 years that he wasn't involved in."
Hill was born in St. Louis. He graduated from Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Mo., with a degree in mathematics and physics, and earned a master's in actuarial science from the University of Michigan. He joined the Atlanta Life Insurance Company in 1949 and eventually became the company's president and CEO. He retired in 1990.
Hill was named the head of the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce - now called the Metro Atlanta Chamber, in 1978. Hill participated in several economic trade missions to Europe on behalf of the chamber and accompanied President Jimmy Carter on a trade mission to Nigeria.
In 1960, Hill helped create the Atlanta Inquirer, the city's first newspaper for the African-American community. He served as publisher until 1985.
Inquirer Deputy Editor David Stokes sai d Hill's wife contacted the paper with news of his death Monday. It wasn't immediately clear how he died.
"He helped, along with some of the preachers in the heyday of the civil rights movement, to raise money for bond when civil rights workers were incarcerated," Stokes said.
Hill was also a board member on the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
"Jesse Hill represented leadership from the corporate community, which gave financial support and authenticity to the movement for social change," Dr. Bernard LaFayette, the group's chairman, said in a statement. "His wealth of corporate contacts convinced business and political leaders that we were going to jail for the right reasons."
Hill also worked in voter registration initiatives and helped desegregate Atlanta Public Schools, and the University System of Georgia.
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said Hill was an essential figure in bridging the divide between the business community and the African- American community.
"Atlanta would not be what it is today without Jesse Hill Jr.'s extraordinary contributions," the mayor said in a statement.
PHILLIP LUCAS,Associated Press
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
192 Entries
Jerry Eby
October 21, 2021
I knew Mr. Hill in the context of working as a valet at a building where he lived. He treated all of us service workers with the same respect that he would his own family and friends. I only knew him for a few years, but he had a great impact on my still developing mind. He had a great presence, and was a wonderful person to work for.
Edna Johnson
February 12, 2021
An inspiration to many, Mr. Hill will be remembered and his influence felt for years. A warm personality and welcoming smile, Mr. Hill will forever be known to me as "The Chairman". I am blessed for having worked and advanced within his sphere of influence.
J. Gregory Griffin
November 21, 2014
Forever shining in my heart!
How you can show support
January 18, 2014
"May you and your family find peace and comfort during this time". "He has our blueprints".
December 27, 2012
RIP
C. G.
December 27, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May the comfort God gives bring comfort to you. (Proverbs17:17)
Annie York and Raul Trujillo
December 26, 2012
Jesse ran a great and powerful race and has received the best reward for his dedication and love - he is now in the presence of the Lord - To Azira and daughters,Nancy and Azira, our prayers and thoughts.
"Dios les bendiga"
December 26, 2012
Love always
Annette
December 25, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
PM
December 25, 2012
My deepest sympathies to the Hill family. May all focus on great his legacy and example he left behind to remember him by. May our loving heavenly father wrap each of you up in his arms by means of comfort and the ability to cope with this tragic loss.
Melinda Margetson
December 24, 2012
I remember seeing Mr Hill every Sunday at Big Bethel while I was a member there, 1992-2002. My prayers are with Mrs Hill and the family.
dana McMillan
December 24, 2012
Sorry for your lost
December 24, 2012
May the God of all comfort be with the family at this time of sadness
G. Johnson
December 24, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jacqui Whittmon-Turner
December 24, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with my family. I regret not being able to attend the service, yet I stand in prayer for you. Jesse Hill left an impeccable legacy. i expect the next generations will always live in light, such a beautiful light.
Lovingly Submitted,
Jacqui Whittmon Turner
Jacqui Whittmon
December 24, 2012
May the family find peace and solace in knowing that Mr. Hill touched many lives in a positive way. God bless the Hill family
Nicole O. Bell
A,C.Artis C HudsonSr.
December 24, 2012
I remember mr. Hill during the early 60. During nergo history Day in school. His legand will alway be with me. Your life have spoke for you the life you have touch. Jesus only knowes what you had to endure. R.I.P.
December 23, 2012
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
December 23, 2012
" May God's light shine upon you now for all the works you have done." ( GA.)
Leigh Haynes
December 23, 2012
Mr. Hill was a great man indeed. He was always so kind to me and encouraging, when I was secretary at Big Bethel. I had great respect for him as a business man and a good, Christian man. He will be truly missed by his church family and his city. May God bless you, his family, and hold you closely in His comforting arms. - Love, Leigh
Dr. Joyce J Dorsey
December 23, 2012
The family of the Late Rev. E.H. and Gladys Dorsey wishes to express condolences and inspiration as we remember the great contributions of Mr. Hill. We remember his work and all the influence that his name brought to the civil rights movement and the contributions on behalf of the Atlanta Life and Butler Street "Y" ...... making a mark in this great city, forever. Hattie B., Rev.Carl, James V, Joseph and Joyce......
December 23, 2012
May god be with your family
December 23, 2012
Rejoicing that you are free of the trials of this life. Be blessed in your great reward.
December 22, 2012
May God bless you i your time of need. The world and Atlanta will miss a great leader and visionary.
Dr. Sandra Hunter
Sherlynn Allen-Harris
December 22, 2012
"Well done good and faithful servant." Thanks for being our warrior. God's blessings to your family.
Nakeshia Fields
December 22, 2012
May u shall rest on with jesus and ur angels...
Margaret Woodard-Jackson
December 22, 2012
Mrs. Hill, I expressed my sympathy earlier (one of your former students at Price High School)Didn't leave my name.
December 22, 2012
To Mrs. Hill: I did not know Mr. Hill personally, but has heard a lot about him. I know you from Price High School where I took Clinic as an elective under you (in the early 1960's). I'll always remember you. You have my deepest sympathy
DARRELL taylor
December 21, 2012
R.i.p god bless you
Priscilla Walthall-Jester
December 21, 2012
I grew up in Big Bethel A.M.E. Church, along with Nancy and Azzira. My remembrance of Mr. Jesse Hill was his humbleness, soft-spokenness, and love for his family. He will be surely missed.
December 21, 2012
Thank you oh GOD for allowing Mr Hill to come our way.
Eric and Stephanie Stradford
December 21, 2012
The King Center, Bethune DuBoise Institute, Morris Brown College, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, City of Atlanta, African Methodist Episcopal Church....He asked for so little and yet gave so much. YouthUSA celebrates this creation of God as MAGNIFICENT!
December 21, 2012
Our sincere expression of sympathy goes out to the entire Hill family. We loved Mr. Hill and we will continue to lift you up in our prayers. He was a wonderful man, friend, role model and inspiration to me all of my life. I will always be grateful for knowing him and being influenced by his example.
We will all miss him. May God continue to bless you and comfort you at this time.
Love,
Madryn and Dexter Odom and family - Daniel, David and Maria
Ms Elizabeth Roberta King-Carter and Church-Family of the Lates Mr
December 21, 2012
To Mrs Hill, Nancy, Azzira and the whole family of the Late Mr Jesse Hill Jr,...be assured that our prayers, sympathy, and condolences strive with you, as you approach and enter into this time of loss and reflection. Mr Hill has always held a special place in our hearts and lives. He was a good man, a good husband, a good father, a good Christian, a good servant, yet he was a good leader. He was a great mentor, a good advisor, a courageous "soldier" for justice, a supportive church layman, brother and friend. Atlanta and Big Bethel A M E Church has been blessed for so many years by his loyal service, love and unchanging faith in GOD. I'm believing that Mr Hill answered GOD'S call to Heavenly Service,...and is standing before the throne of GOD,..who is bestowing him "top honors" for being a good, humble servant to HIS people. Mr Hill must be receiving thousands of commendations from the angels, who saw all the work we didn't see. I believe he just got GOD'S "GREAT GOLD SERVICE AWARD" and is ready to take his place with GOD, as HE whispers to him,..."Well done my good and faithful servant". Rest In Peace Now.
Gabria J. Flowers
December 20, 2012
To the Hill family ,Our love,sympathy and prayers goes out to you right now . May Gods words bring you peace and comforts . Earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal. Love you The Flowers Family
Delores Turner
December 20, 2012
I have known Mr. Hill practically all of my life. He was an humble, kind, God fearing, compassionate, and generous person. Big Bethel AME Church and the Atlanta community will surely miss him.
Deborah Moore
December 20, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Mary Beth Blanding
December 20, 2012
Rest in peace Mr..Hill t hank you for your brilliance and being a mentor and role model to several a generations of students including thr four generations of Omega Psi Phii Fraternityq in my family
Judith Ingram
December 20, 2012
When I worked for Rich's at Greenbriar Mall, Mr. Hill often walked through the store. And every time he saw me he spoke and greeted me with that big smile. I observed him do the same with other associates and customers. For the most part we were all strangers _ but that didn't keep him from being warm and friendly. Our city has lost a true ambassador. May you find comfort in your memories.
Doris L. Hamilton
December 20, 2012
May memories of your loved one, bring peace to your heart.
John/Robenia Rivers
December 20, 2012
To the Hill Family, you have are heartfelt sympathy for the loss of Mr. Hill. God Bless!
Laura Sullivan
December 20, 2012
Although I only meet Mr. Hill once he was gracious and very kind. May the family have peace and celebrate his great accomplishments.
The Tomlinson Family (Travis, Earlene, Monya, Tracee & Kellie)
December 20, 2012
Please accept our condolences. Mr. Hill was a great example - someone we looked up to as a person, businessman and civic-minded family man. We feel blessed to have known him.
Mrs. Hill and the family, you are in our prayers and have our support. He will be missed, but remember the good times and all the things that made him so special and influential.
M. Allen
December 20, 2012
He will be missed.
deb
December 20, 2012
Thank you for what you believe. In if there is a heaven. Its open wild for you.
December 20, 2012
What a wonderful and kind man. I met Mr. Hill years ago at Sam's club I think it was during the holidays, we were both purchasing wine. We had a discussion about what wine to purchase depending on the meal to be served. It wasn't until he walked away that I realized who he was. I ran into him many years later at Big Bethel AMEC same friendly man, same smile, same spirit. He will be missed by many, but never forgotten.
Mr. Earl S. Murray Sr
December 20, 2012
My condolences to the family.....
And fellow Y'Man
PEACE!!!
Pamela - Murray Dawson
December 20, 2012
My sincere condolences to the entire Hill family..........God needed this civil rights soul to keep order..
PEACE BE WITH YOU FAMILY
Charles Swann
December 20, 2012
Mr. Hill,
As a friend of my Father and Mother and a fellow church member I will never forget you helping me get my first engineering position back in 1970. May you rest in peace.
My condolences to the Hill family.
Debrar S
December 20, 2012
Mr. Hill, I have always admired and respected you. Thanks for all you did. May you now rest in peace. Well done, true and faithful servant.
Donnie Corbett
December 20, 2012
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Denise Chapman
December 20, 2012
I like 2 said that I'm sorry here the. Pass of Mr Jesses. My prayers go 2 the family
Eleanor Haywood Taylor
December 19, 2012
Mr. Jesse Hill Jr, you completed God's plan on earth" what a blessing! I pray that you have met The Father, The Son, and the Holy Ghost in Heaven.
Prayerfully,
Relatives of Mr. L.H. Haywood
Drs. William & Carole Ware
December 19, 2012
We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Jesse Hill, Jr. We were so honored to know this great man and always held him in such high esteem. He leaves such an endearing and inspirational legacy. May God bless his memory, and continue to comfort his beautiful family. We send our deepest condolences. God bless!
Wylma Long Blanding
December 19, 2012
The hearts,prayers,and best wishes are extended to the Hill family from my family. Jessie was a good friend and fraternity to my father,husband,brother and son. May he rest in peace
Sheryl Gripper
December 19, 2012
We were saddened to hear of the passing of a wonderful man, Mr. Jesse Hill, Jr. Our thoughts and prayers are with Azira and family.
Sincerely,
Sheryl & Jeff Gripper
Wesley Jackson III
December 19, 2012
Mr Hill, thank you.
Janet Crawl Shortt
December 19, 2012
I met Mr. Hill in the mid 1950s. He was always moving fast, race-walking up Auburn Avenue, as if he had a lot to do, a lot to accomplish. And in his lifetime,that he did. His achievements speak for themselves.
However, he was never to busy to speak, to be a friend. He was unequaled in caring for others. My family and I hold deep admiration and respect for Mr. Hill and the legacy he leaves behind. We want his family to know that they are close in thought and that our heartfelt sympathy goes out to them.
Shirley Simmons
December 19, 2012
He was a giant whose legacy will live on for what he contributed to others. Beyond the public man,we all know that he loved his family. May it be of comfort to you that others share in your sorrow at this time.
Reggiw Wright
December 19, 2012
He was one of a kind
R Smith
December 19, 2012
Sincere condolences to a wonderful life that was lost. May the family take pride in his wonderful memories . and draw strength from a life well lived and in service to others.May the God of comfort grant you a measure of peace at this time.
Sheldon Keith
December 19, 2012
Have faith in the promise God made at Psalms 37:29. It reads “The righteous themselves will possess the earth, And they will reside forever upon it.” His promises bring us comfort and offers us hope.
Marion Black
December 19, 2012
We love you, we appreciate you, and we thank God for you. Rest in peace.
Marion Black
Electronics
Price High School
Charles and Tonya Lowe
December 19, 2012
Our prayers are with the Hill family.
Loretta Moore
December 19, 2012
Saddened to hear of the passing of Jesse Hill,Jr. Jesse never failed to be a gracious ambassador of good will to my group of St. Louisans whenever we visited Atlanta. I knew him as a noble man of great generosity and humility. My condolences and prayers are extended to the Hill family.
Jill
December 19, 2012
My deepest sympathies. May the "God of all comfort," help to ease the pain of your grief during this time.(1 Cor 1:3,4)
December 19, 2012
So sorry to hear about your loss. May 1 Peter 5:6,7 be of comfort to you in this difficult time.
December 19, 2012
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend or family. the bible can be of some comfort at john 3 16.
Brian Maddox
December 19, 2012
When I first moved to Atlanta 14 yrs ago, I saw Jesse Hill Jr. Dr and wondered who this person was and what did he do? When I did my research, I was taken back by Jesse Hill, Jr's courage and his business acumen.
Thank you for your service toward the greater good Mr. Hill. May God continue to bless your remaining family members.
Elsie Scott
December 19, 2012
My condolences to the Hill family. Mr. Hill was a giant who left a rich legacy. May his life inspire young black men to not just make it financially, but to make a difference by your service.
Glenda Ford
December 19, 2012
My condolences to the family, during this most difficult time. God assures us that if we draw close to him, he will draw close to us. May your memories bring you comfort. James 4:8
Mary Geneva Jackson
December 19, 2012
You will truly be missed. I am happy to call you family and a friend. You always gave hugs, or a warm hand shake, cards, 20 dollars for birthdays growning up, words of wisdom, and a smile! Thank You. You will truly be missed. You are a wonderful man.
December 19, 2012
Thank you for setting the bar for us today
Mary Turner-Gooding
December 19, 2012
Another soldier gone home. Thanks Bro. Hill. You made a difference for us all. RIP NOW. the Turner-Gooding Family May God grant peace/comfort to the family!!!
Naomi Bell
December 19, 2012
To the Hill family, may the God above grant you His love and comfort in your lost. Mr. Hill was the true epitome of a gentleman and was truly a role model for us to follow. To Nancy and the entire family hold fast to His promises that we will see him again. Rest in eternal peace. Much love.
Ken Rudolph
December 19, 2012
12/18/2012"Being a former agent with Atlanta Life in the 80's,Mr. Hill was a great inspiration to me. My with his family.- Ken Rudolph(Mtgy,AL)
Precilla Nollie-Ponder
December 18, 2012
To Nancy, your mother and your sister,Azira, on behalf of the Nollie-Ponder family, we send our sympathies for your loss. I am truly grateful that I got to see your father at different events held around Atlanta. Any big event he was there from The Atlanta Mayors Ball to the Business chronicles events to Lincoln University alumna gatherings. I would always see him and your mother. I remember when he used to drop you at our house to visit my sister Flora and one time let me drive his station wagon. These are memories I will cherish. Know that we your other family are praying for you and your family for spiritual uplifting during your time of berevement and beyond!!
EG
December 18, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
EG
December 18, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
ms
December 18, 2012
So sorry for your loss. May the God of peace be with you all during this difficult time.
Romans 15:33
ms
December 18, 2012
My deepest condolences to the Hill family. His dedication will always be remembered. May the God of peace be with you all.
barbara sidwell
December 18, 2012
Thank you for your legacy, your service, your tiredless labor, for your dedication to the civil rights movement and struggle, your contribution to our city and state. May you rest in peace.
Pamela Shields
December 18, 2012
My Prayers go out to the Hill Family! Mr. Hill was a great boss and a inspirational Man! I worked at Atlanta Life under his leadership and those years bring fond memories! Atlanta has lost a great icon!
Donald and Betty Scott
December 18, 2012
Jesse Hill Jr. was a dynamic servant leader. A man in motion and full of wisdom, his actions made life better for thousands in Atlanta and elsewhere.
Betty and I were blessed to be recipients of his kindness and friendship.
Azira, our hearts and prayers are with you and family as you adjust to life without Jesse.
Don and Betty Scott
Kansas City, MO 64116
Monica Chandler
December 18, 2012
Mrs. Hill, I pray that God continues to comfort you and your family during this trying time. I want you to know that I am here for you.
Greselda McLin-Middleton
December 18, 2012
"The world was a better place with Mr. Hill in it."
Thanks be to God.
Lynette Adams
December 18, 2012
My condolences and prayers to Mrs. Hill, Nancy, Azira and your families.
Love Always, Lynette (DST)
Debra A. Harrell
December 18, 2012
God is still in Control. May he grant you peace. My Prayers are with you.
Lonnie Massingill
December 18, 2012
I met Mr. Hill while a member at the Big Bethel AME Church he was humble man. My condolences goes out to his wife and family.
Ivy
December 18, 2012
God Bless You for Your Courage and Leadership.
EG
December 18, 2012
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Rosalyn Flanagan
December 18, 2012
To the Hill Family,
I am truly saddened by Mr. Hill's death. Mr. Hill was more than just a friend; he was an amazing person. He was always so kind and considerate to others and I always was welcomed in seeing him.
His passing will not only leave a void in our lives, but in the hearts of everyone who knew him. Mr. Hill's memory will always remain deep within my heart.
My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you.
With deepest sympathy,
Rosalyn Flanagan
Coyrina Lewis
December 18, 2012
Thank you for your work in the Civil Rights Movement. May the angels sing your praises in heaven Blessings on your family in their loss
Mable Green
December 18, 2012
During a time of sorrow we express our sympathy to the Hill family!
Janet Walker
December 18, 2012
My heart and prayers go out to the members of his family. My mother, Ms. Carl Brinson, his secretary for more than 30 years, have setup an office in a little corner of heaven to continue to serve and help others. He will be missed as a father, a confidant, and a friend. I and my family are the better for knowing him. Blessed be.
Linda
December 18, 2012
Thank you for making life easier for those of us that came after you.
Rest in Peace.
Barbara & WL Williams, Jr.
December 18, 2012
Our hearts are joined with yours as we stand with you in prayer. We thank God for His servant,Jesse.
Showing 1 - 100 of 192 results
Make a Donation
in Jesse Hill's name
How to support Jesse's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Jesse Hill's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored