James Mitchell Hill was born October 15, 1949 in Champaign, Illinois to Sam and Davie Hill. He passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on January 13, 2024.
James, also known as Jimmy and Jim, was a pleasant, strong, Christian man. He was a friend to everyone who knew him. He always had a smile on his face and was quick to share his contagious laugh with others. His loyalty and authenticity made him special to so many people. Everyone knew him as a gentle and kind man. He was a gifted, self-taught musician who loved to share his joy of music with others. He met his “spiritual soulmate,” Nancy, and was married for 20 years. He enjoyed watching his grandkids play sports and cherished every moment on stage performing and time spent with his family and friends.
He worked his entire life as a professional musician playing the keyboard in various groups and performing all over the country. Most notably, he was a founding member for Duke Tumatoe and the Power Trio, a blues band, for over 55 years. In addition, James was a member and the music director for the Union Memorial AME church in Benton Harbor, MI for over 35 years.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Shirley Hill and Diana MItchell.
He leaves behind his loving wife Nancy as well as his four children Dr. Nicole Hill of Columbia, SC, Jerica Monteiro of St. Louis, MO, Jacquie (Scott) Rost of Elkhart, IN, and Jeff (Lisa) Odiorne of Anderson, IN. He is also the proud Papa of Cameron, Lauren, Dylan, Jordan, Brooklynn, Quinn, Baylee, and Colton. He is also the Great-grandfather to Josiah. In addition, he leaves behind four siblings including Clifton Payne, John Payne, Deloris Mann and Carla Sanford.
Friends and family are invited to attend a gathering for fellowship and food at Sandbar & Grille at 2701 Lakeshore Dr, St Joseph, MI 49085. In lieu of flowers, James requested that donations be made to the Union Memorial AME church.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Robbins Brothers Funeral Home, Benton Harbor.
Services
GATHERING OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Thursday
February 1, 2024
12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Union Memorial AME Church
911 S. Crystal Ave.
Benton Harbor, MI 49022
MEMORIAL SERVICE
Thursday
February 1, 2024
2:00 PM
Union Memorial AME Church (Benton Harbor)
Posted On: Friday, January 19, 2024 3:56 PM
