Tommy Ray Hill

Tommy Ray Hill of Gilmer, Texas passed away peacefully on April 16, 2015 surrounded by family and friends. He fought a courageous six-month battle after being diagnosed with ALS. Tommy was born to Arville and Ollie Hill on February 28, 1948 in Gilmer, Texas. He graduated from East Mountain High School in 1966. After graduation he married Paula Frances Hill. He and Paula were married 48 years and shared many treasured memories raising two sons, Stephen and Jeff. Tommy was a loving husband, father, and Papaw. One of his greatest sources of joy and blessing were his 10 grandchildren. Tommy is preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers David, Ricky and Terry. Tommy was known for his faith and commitment to Jesus and helping others. His love of building things began as he worked alongside his grandfather as a young boy. A carpenter by trade, Tommy served his Savior and his fellow man by helping with needs in his community and building churches on mission trips. He worked as a journeyman carpenter and builder for several years; then began his teaching career in Gilmer in 1981, where he taught building trades for 32 years. Tommy was blessed to be able to pass on a trade that he truly loved, while investing in the lives of his students. He had a great impact on his students, teaching them job skills and personal development traits such as pride, workmanship and being true to their word. Tommy was an active member of First Baptist Church in Gilmer and regarded his Sunday school class members as some of his most treasured friends. He also enjoyed traveling and spending time with his dear friends Winston and Linda Maberry, who he considered extended family. Tommy was also a collector of tractors and vintage buggies. One of his favorite activities was taking his grandkids and his friends on buggy rides. He is survived by his wife, Paula; his son and daughter-in-law Stephen and Mandy and their daughters, Rachel, Rebecca, Rylee, Allie, and Addison; son and daughter-in-law Jeff and Barbara and their children, Jacob, Colton, Eric, Ashlynn, and Mackenzie; brother and sister-in-law Byron and Pat Watson. He also has four special nieces Stacey Marchesano, Wendy Powers, Jill Watson and Ginny Paul, as well as two nephews David and Shawn Hill and numerous other family and friends. He will be dearly missed. The family will receive friends Thursday, April 23, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at Croley Funeral Home. Funeral services are set for 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 24, 2015, at First Baptist Church Gilmer with Rev. Stephen Hill and Rev. Wayne Norvell officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park under the direction of Croley Funeral Home in Gilmer The family wishes to express their appreciation to Care Team Home Health and Hospice, and Longview Regional hospital nursing staff. We are so thankful for the care given to Tommy during his illness. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Care Team Hospice, 4362 N Hwy 259, Longview, Texas 75605, MDA or The ALS Association.