Oliver Hugh Hill

Oliver "Buddy" Hill, 87, of New Haven, CT, beloved husband of Elinor Hill, passed away on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at Yale New Haven Hospital of complications from a long illness. Born on February 21, 1938, in Jefferson County, FL, he was the son of Ransom and Catherine Hill. Oliver resided in New Haven, CT, and attended RR Moton Elementary School and Mays High School. He was employed by Allegheny Ludlum (now Allegheny Technologies Inc.) for 32 years and owned Grassy Hill Landscaping, a business he faithfully operated for 25 years, reflecting his great love for landscaping. Oliver was also known for his culinary skills, a proud tradition among the Hill men. He particularly loved to cook his favorite recipe, eggplant parmesan, for all of his family and friends. Baptized at a young age at Sweethome Missionary Baptist Church in Miami, FL, Oliver was a devoted member of Mount Hebron Baptist Church in Meriden, CT. He was a proud Prince Hall Freemason and cherished his community involvement. A pure joker in his own right, the "Big O" preferred not to be the butt of jokes himself. This would never stop him from being the brightest light in the room or letting his opinion be known. Whether he was singing a tune or making the goofiest faces, his presence was always felt by those around him. Besides his wife, Elinor, Oliver is survived by his daughters, Cindy (James) and Tammy; sons, Matthew (and partner Cherie) and Corey Hill; grandchildren, Daniel, Nakeema, Ramsey, Rickina, Shamiah, Camron, Dakri, and Lilly; sister, Geraldine (George) Koonce and Willie C. Roberts; brothers, Ransom (Helen) and Robert (Sharon); and a host of nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters, Earnestine Perkins and Josephine Brooks, and sons, Ricky Hill and Hanif Hill. Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Mount Hebron Baptist Church in Meriden, CT, with Reverend Green officiating. Friends may call prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The burial will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mount Hebron Baptist Church, 84 Franklin Street, Meriden, CT 06450. Arrangements are under the direction of John J. Ferry & Sons Funeral Home, 88 East Main St., Meriden, CT 06450. For online condolences, please visit jferryfh.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Oliver, please visit our floral store.