Dr. James Kenneth Hill

WASHINGTON, DC. — Dr. James K. Hill, 85, formerly of Ninety Six, SC, passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at his home in Washington, DC. Born May 3rd, 1935 in Ninety Six he was the son of the late James Hill and the late Alice R. Hill.

In 1953, he graduated from Brewer High School, he continued his education, earning a (B.S.) from Eastern Michigan University (1964), (M.S.) of Howard University (1968), and (Ed. D) at the University of Florida (1974). He was a Microbiology professor at Howard University, where he later retired. He was a member of Phi Delta Kappa and Beta Kappa Chi.

Dr. Hill loved to travel, honored his culture, loved his family, and he was a member of Pine Pleasant Baptist Church, Ninety Six, South Carolina.

He is survived by his two sisters, Tomasina Stewart of Florence, SC, and Edith Culbreath of Greenwood, SC, along with several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services to celebrate Dr. Hill’s life will be 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2020 at Pine Pleasant Baptist Church Cemetery, Ninety Six, South Carolina. The family is at the home of a sister, 314 North Hospital Street, Greenwood, SC. Arrangements are being handled by Robinson & Son Mortuary, Inc.

Fred D. Armstrong Legacy (Sheila’s dad and Cousin Clarence’s father-in law)

My dad, Fred Douglas Armstrong, departed this life peacefully Saturday evening, July 11, 2020, at Walter Reed Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland surrounded by his family. He was born in Elm City, NC on February 10, 1937.  He graduated from Frederick Douglass School, served 20 years, 3 months in the United States Air Force. Two of his tours of duty included Vietnam and the Philippines. He then worked for Hecht’s in Savage, Maryland until his second retirement.  Dad married Helen Marie Lucas and to this union, one daughter, Sheila and one son, Doug were born.  He was a member of Greater Saint John Church, where he was highly visible and active. Dad touched so many people through his patient and peaceful spirit, his wonderful sense of humor, his infectious smile, his heart-felt laughter and quick wit.   He had jokes all the time and he was quick with his comebacks. His life was devoted to his family, and he loved his children, grandson, daughter-in-law, and son-in law dearly. His children were his pride and joy. He often said to me, “you and Doug are not my gifts, you and Doug are my blessings”. He loved his battle buddy and best friend, George Banks. Their friendship began over 50 years ago and they were brothers. They travelled to the same tours of duty places via the military, they enjoyed going to Solomons Island, Maryland with their boats, enjoyed fishing together, and simply supported each other in all things in life. Dad loved studying the Bible, fishing, planting flowers, enjoying good music, conversation, preparing his famous ribs, and fellowship. Dad loved working with the Frederick Douglass Alumni Association where he worked tirelessly to raise funds for scholarships for deserving students. He was the Secretary of the Maryland Chapter for many years. Dad will be missed beyond measure.  Dad, we will always keep you close in our hearts. You’ve set an excellent example. We have many happy memories. We will continue to keep your legacy strong! 

A viewing will be held on Monday, August 3, 2020, from 11:00am-11:30am at Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory. A Homegoing Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, August 3, 2020, at 11:30am. Entombment with full Military Honors will follow at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery. 

 In lieu of flowers in memory, please send check to Frederick Douglass High School Alumni Association, P.O. Box 2562, Wilson, NC 27894. On the check, put “Fred D. Armstrong Scholarship Fund.” Services of comfort entrusted to Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 6160 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Rest in Heaven, Mr. Fred D. Armstrong!