Gerald Lee Hill Sr.

It is with profound sadness that the family of Gerald (Jerry) Lee Hill, Sr, announce his passing on September 9, 2026 at the age of 83. Jerry was a remarkable man, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, teacher, soldier, adventurer, and animal lover. Born to Gilbert Lee Hill and Loretta Diviney in Buffalo New York, He lived a life that was anything but ordinary.

He played football. He rode bulls. He rode motorcycles. He flew airplanes. He was fearless, adventurous, and never afraid to live life on his own terms. As a young man, he even managed to set a rail car on fire—and once set a shed on fire while playing Cowboys and Indians. Those stories, told with a mixture of disbelief and laughter, were just part of the extraordinary life he lived.

His courage was not limited to adventure. He proudly served his country for 25 years in the military, including two and a half years in Vietnam. His service and bravery earned him multiple Bronze Stars for Valor and a Purple Heart. He gave much of himself in service to his country, and that courage and sense of duty remained with him throughout his life.

After his military career, he devoted 31 years to teaching at Middle Tennessee State University. He was more than a teacher—he was a mentor, an encourager, and someone who left an impression on generations of students and colleagues. He loved MTSU, its sports, and the community that became such an important part of his life. But above all else, he loved his family. He loved his friends. He loved his animals. And he loved life.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Loretta and Gilbert Hill, and his beloved wife of 49 years, Karen Hill. He is survived by his sons, Mike (Brandy) Hill, Matt Hill, Paul (Robin) Hill, and Gerald (Rebecca) Hill Jr.; his sister Sue (Dan) Stahl; his grandchildren, Dana Hill, Kaden Hill, Rachel Hill, Alyssa Hill, Amanda Hill, Connor Hill, Victoria Hill, Ashlee Hanna (Tyler), Jack Rowland, Julia Rowland, and his two great-grandchildren, Malachi Hanna and Callum Hanna. He wil be deeply missed by his family and friends.

To those who knew him, he was the kind of man who encouraged you to be brave, to take chances, to see the world, and to never let fear keep you from an adventure. He taught by example that a life well lived is one filled with courage, curiosity, laughter, loyalty, and love.

For his family, he was the greatest man we ever knew. He was the person who always encouraged us to chase experiences, love fiercely, and to live boldly. His presence made the world feel bigger and more exciting, and his absence leaves a space that can never be filled.

On September 9th , he begun his final adventure. And somewhere beyond this world, he is flying free and finally reunited with his beloved wife.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Visitation for Gerald will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 6: 00 p.m. at Bond Memorial Chapel. A burial for Gerald will take place at Arlington National Cemtery at a later date. Arrangements by Bond Memorial Chapel, 1098 Weston Drive, Mt. Juliet, TN. (615) 773-2663, www.bondmemorial.com