William Earl Hill; a beloved husband, father, papa, and friend, passed away unexpectedly while doing what he loved; hunting on November 29, 2025 at the age of 53 in Bloomingdale, MI. Born July 23, 1972, in South Haven, Michigan, William left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
William was united in marriage to his loving wife, Valerie (Carothers) Hill, on June 29, 2001 after many years of companionship, showcasing a bond that exemplified love and devotion. Together they created a nurturing family, raising six children: Samantha (Paul Christie) Hill, John (Lillian) Hill, Nathan (Josh) Hill, James Hill, Sebastian Hill and Myaha Hill. The joy William found in his family was profound, as he was also a proud papa to five grandchildren whom he had an unbreakable bond with: Mason, Raelynn, Taz, Maxull, and Addie, with another grandchild; River Hill, on the way.
William's passions included hunting, fishing, and gambling where he relished the thrill of the slots. Amongst many accomplishments throughout his life, William and his blue-tick "Braveheart" won second place at the Autumn Oaks Dog Show in 2002. For over 20 years William was a truck driver. His favorite freightliner he drove was "Ole Bessie". His love of driving a semi came from his father, James Earl Hill. William loved the rolling scenery, and always being on the go, ensuring that he made it home every night to be with his beloved family. On top of trucking, he pursued the trade of drywalling with Patrick John Carothers. William was a great cook in the kitchen and on the grill, often having chili cookoffs with his wife. He possessed a personality that was both stubborn, yet deeply loving and giving. He was often guided by his personal motto "money is the root of all evil", which reflected his values and outlook on life. He was consistently full of jokes and nicknames. If you got a nickname, you were part of the family. William was the true definition of being a jack of all trades.
He was the beloved son of James and Joyce Hill, and cherished brother to his sister, Kathy (Rick) Merchant. In addition to his immediate family, he leaves behind sisters and brothers-in-law: Asia (Mike) Christie, Katrina (Matt) Henson, Garaled Carothers, Brandon (Lauren) Carothers, and Travis (Tori) Carothers.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Family First Funeral & Cremation Services located at 52780 M-40 Marcellus, MI 49067. His memory will live on through those who loved him dearly, and he will be profoundly missed by all whose lives he touched.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
52780 M-40, Marcellus, MI 49067

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more