Traci Jo Gill

Traci Jo Gill was born on June 5, 1965, in Izmir, Turkey, at an Air Force hospital. As a child, she lived in Saudi Arabia for a time and then moved to St. Simons Island, Georgia, before her family settled on Munson Highway in Milton, Florida. She later moved to Englewood, Florida, where her grandmother's family had first settled in the 1800s. Eventually, Traci returned to Milton, where she and her sisters attended the Santa Rosa School system, graduating from Allentown School.

Traci loved school. Each morning, she greeted the day with wonderment and excitement-ready to learn, to laugh, and to form new friendships. It was in second grade that she met Karen Church Nowling, who would become her lifelong friend and, in every way, her sister. Their bond was a rare and beautiful gift, a friendship that lasted from childhood through Traci's final days. Karen was her faithful, loving, forgiving, and true friend always by her side through life's joys and trials.

Traci had a remarkable gift: an extraordinary memory for people. She never forgot a name, a face, or a moment of connection. On a trip to Six Flags in Georgia, she surprised her companions by recognizing and greeting people she had known years before in Milton. While others might have forgotten, Traci always remembered. If you asked her about kindergarten, she could tell you not only her teacher's name but each classmate who sat beside her.

In the summer of 1983, Traci met the love of her life, another earthly angel, John Gill. Their devoted courtship quickly blossomed into marriage in November 1984, beginning a journey of love, faith, and partnership that would span more than four decades.

For over 40 years, Traci and John built a life together in Berrydale, Florida, on the Gill family property. Hand in hand, they grew vegetables in their garden, raised animals, cared for their hunting dogs, and cherished the simple joys of country living. Traci often joined John on his hunting adventures-not for the sport alone, but because she simply loved being by his side.

Traci's faith was the foundation of her life. More than just a member of Pine Grove Baptist Church, she was a steadfast servant of God. For over 40 years, she stood beside John in ministry-teaching Bible study, leading worship music, and encouraging others with her unwavering faith. Through her words, her songs, and her example, Traci reflected the heart of a true child of God.

She is survived by her beloved husband, John Gill; her brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Nicole Hill; nephews Harold IV and Hunter; her father, Harry Hill Jr.; her uncle and aunt, Rob and Dena Stowers; and countless friends and loved ones who were blessed by her presence. She was preceded in death by her mother, Joann Hill, and sisters Holly and Brandi Hill.

A celebration of Traci's life will be held at Pine Grove Baptist Church, 7280 Pine Grove Rd, Jay, Florida. Visitation 12:30 and Celebration of Life at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, 23 August 2025. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of her life and the light she shared with so many.

Traci's life was a testimony of love, friendship, and faith. She will be deeply missed, yet her memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.