Charles F. Hill III

Charles F. Hill III
January 11, 1939 – October 21, 2025
Charles F. Hill III, a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, veteran, and man of faith, passed away peacefully at the West Haven VA Hospital with his wife and sons at his bedside, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering friendship.
Born on January 11, 1939, in Portland, Maine, to Florence and Charles Hill, Charlie was raised in Hiram, Maine, by his mother Florence and stepfather George Whitehead. A pivotal moment in his early life came when the family relocated to Hollis Center due to the great Maine forest fire. There, he graduated from Hollis Center High School in 1956 as class president and an all-state basketball standout.
Charlie proudly served in the United States Marine Corps, serving on Okinawa during the Vietnam conflict. It was in the Marines that he met his lifelong best friend, Donny Thompson. After his service, Charlie moved to Donny's hometown of Guilford, CT where the two remained inseparable-never living more than 10 minutes apart-for the rest of Charlie's life.
Charlie married Judy Holcomb in 1963 and together they raised two sons, Charles IV and Timothy Bryan. A hardworking entrepreneur, he retired as a truck driver after owning several small businesses, including Bantam Yacht Rentals, Precision Machinery, and Shoreline Taxi. Even in retirement, his passion for people shone through as he drove special needs children for Datco; he loved the kids, and they loved him right back.
In 1988, Charlie married Kathleen Corbett, his loving life partner of 37 years. He embraced her sons, David and Christopher, and their families as his own. He delighted in spending precious time with all of his nine grandchildren. He always enjoyed being part of their life celebrations both big and small. He was often alongside Donny, where the two would proudly watch and wager on high school softball games when Donny's granddaughter pitched against Charlie's granddaughter.
In 2004, Charlie joined Shoreline Church, and in 2006, he was baptized in Christ-a decision he considered the most important of his life. The church became his extended family, and he was an active member of the men's group. Known for his great sense of humor, timely advice, and playful jokester spirit, Charlie brought joy to everyone around him.
Predeceased by his parents, Florence Whitehead and Charles Hill; stepfather George Whitehead, stepmother Edith Hill; and sister Cheryl, Charlie is survived by his beloved wife Kathy; sons Chuck (Lorraine) and Tim (Susan); stepsons David Corbett and Christopher Corbett; brothers Fred Hill and Leon Whitehead; sister Dorothy Powers; and grandchildren Jenny, Charles, Ian, Audrey, Garrett, Brittany, Christopher Jr., Sophie, and Olivia. Uncle Chuck was the favorite of all of his nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held on Saturday, Nov. 15th from 2-4 p.m. at Shoreline Church in Old Lyme, followed by a Memorial Service at 4:00. Charlie's ashes will be buried in Hiram, Maine, in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shoreline Church, 287 Shore Rd., Old Lyme, Connecticut 06371.