A memorial service for Lee Arthur Hill Sr., age 79 of Ruston, LA, is scheduled for 2:00 PM, Saturday, April 12, 2025 at Owens Memorial Chapel Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.
Our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Lee Arthur Hill, Sr., was born on June 14, 1945, in Kentfield, California, to William “Bill” Hill, Jr. and Nellie May. From a young age, Lee’s resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit shined through—at just five years old, he began selling paper bags from his little red wagon, salvaged from a burned-down local grocery store. It was the beginning of a lifetime marked by ingenuity, tenacity, and purpose.
A gifted athlete, Lee played basketball for Grant Union High School, helping to lead his team to a state championship in 1962. His dedication and discipline on the court mirrored the character he carried throughout his life.
Lee served his country honorably in the United States Air Force from June 1965 to September 1969 during the Vietnam War as a Draftsman, where he contributed to the design of various military equipment and classified missions. Following his service, he pursued higher education and majored in Mathematics and Computer Analysis with a minor in Mechanical Engineering.
A brilliant mind, Lee worked as an aerospace engineer for Hughes Aircraft in Los Angeles, where his expertise and leadership made a lasting impact. He was involved in creating satellite and shuttle components. Yet his talents extended beyond engineering—Lee had a deep love for music. He was brought up in the Baptist church and enjoyed singing in the choir under the tutelage of his older sister Gracie. He also produced, co-wrote, and sang on an original song for the Los Angeles Dodgers Best Song Competition and was selected to perform with the group as one of the top 3 finalists.
Lee’s faith in God was unshakable, sustaining him through life’s many challenges—including the loss of his first wife, the joys and complexities of raising a blended family, and the health battles he faced after developing epilepsy due to a brain aneurysm. Through it all, he stood strong, a pillar of strength and perseverance.
Lee shared nearly 40 beautiful years of marriage with his devoted wife, Arlene (Brown) Hill, and together they built a life filled with love, resilience, and unwavering support for one another. Their 40th wedding anniversary would have been celebrated in August 2025—a testament to the enduring bond they shared.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom through his children: Lee Hill, Jr. (Wife Kharisma), Amanda Hill, and Jessica (Hill) Latin (Husband Brent); his four stepchildren; a host of cherished grandchildren, nieces/nephews and his siblings: Gracie (Hill) Harding (deceased), Betty (Hill) Stokes, Robert “Billy” Hill (deceased), and Siobhan (Hill) Portis (Husband Ken)
Lee Arthur Hill, Sr. will be remembered for his sharp mind, generous heart, creative spirit, and steadfast faith. His impact will continue to live on in the lives and hearts of all who knew and loved him.
“As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.”
James 2:26 NIV
A visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until service time at Owens Memorial Chapel.
