William Benson "Benny" Hill

William Benson Hill, affectionately known as "Benny," was born on March 1, 1961, in Williamsburg, Virginia. He departed this life on August 27, 2025, in Newport News, Virginia.

As a proud son of Williamsburg and a founding Panther of Bruton High School's Class of 1979, Benny exemplified loyalty, discipline, and service throughout his life. Shortly after graduation, on August 1, 1979, he answered his nation's call to serve by enlisting in the United States Air Force. His career spanned two decades, beginning in Richmond, Virginia, and concluding with distinction at Langley Air Force Base. Over the course of twenty years, he rose through the ranks to Master Sergeant (E-7), retiring honorably on August 31, 1999.

Benny was a veteran of Operation Desert Storm and served faithfully at numerous duty stations around the world. His career reflected not only personal achievement but also sacrifice, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his country. His service was not simply a profession but a defining chapter of his life, and he carried the pride of the Air Force with him long after his retirement.

Education was another cornerstone of Benny's journey. In addition to his military accomplishments, he earned a BA in Computer science, a reflection of his appetite for knowledge and his commitment to personal growth. Ever curious and eager to learn, Benny believed education was a lifelong pursuit-a principle he encouraged in those around him.

After his military service, Benny continued his father's legacy as the owner and proprietor of James York Security, carrying forward a tradition of integrity, professionalism, and community service. Through this work, he built on the foundation his father had laid, ensuring that the family's values remained alive in the business that bore their name.

Benny shared his life with his beloved wife, Gloria "Jeannie" Hill, who stood faithfully by his side through many chapters. Their union was marked by love, respect, and devotion, and her steadfast presence was both his anchor and his joy. Jeannie's own family became part of Benny's life as well, and he shared bonds of kinship with her siblings: Terry Hall, Larrie King, Johnnie King, Marvin King, Lucille King, and Idell King.

Earlier in life, Benny was married to Lucy Reid Hill, with whom he shared meaningful years and family ties that shaped important parts of his journey.

Beyond his professional and personal commitments, Benny was a man of many passions. A proud member of the Buffalo Boyz MC1, he found camaraderie, brotherhood, and purpose in service to others. He was also a lifelong car enthusiast whose love for the open road extended beyond motorcycles, and his joy for both reflected his adventurous spirit.

Benny was preceded in death by his parents, Leroy "Chubby" and Eloise Hill, as well as his stepmother, Ethel Hill. Their love and guidance shaped the man he became, and his life stood as a continuation of the values they instilled in him. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Ronald Hill (Beverly), Andy Hill, Aaron Hill, Paul Matthews, and Henry Matthews.

Benny was the beloved brother of five sisters, Khadijah Abdul-ghani (Kenneth), Eloise Hill Burt, Teresa Hill, Bettye Matthews Walker, and Amie Curley; devoted father to four children, Vesper Hill, Kesha Marie Hill, William Hill Jr., and Starr P. Person (Antoine); his family extended far beyond his immediate circle; cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, each of whom were a source of joy, pride, and laughter in his life.

To friends and neighbors, Benny was known as a true pillar of the community-respected, admired, and always ready with a helping hand. His generosity of spirit and willingness to show up for others left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A man of wide-ranging interests, Benny was a fun-loving amateur photographer whose lens captured both the grand and simple moments of life. He was also a gifted conversationalist-whether the topic was weighty or lighthearted, Benny had a way of engaging people with curiosity, humor, and warmth.

In every season of his life, William "Benny" Hill embodied honor, service, and joy. He lived with conviction, gave freely of himself, and touched countless lives with his kindness. Those who knew him will remember his laughter, his wisdom, his devotion to family, and his unwavering commitment to the values he held dear.

His life stands as a testament to the words of Scripture:
"Well done, good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."

A funeral service to celebrate Benny's life will be held at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at St. John Baptist Church - Williamsburg, with a viewing beginning at 11:00 a.m. Interment with full military honors will take place at Williamsburg Memorial Park.

Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com