Ryan William Hill passed away on August 19, 2024, at the age of 39. Born on April 6, 1985, to Roger and Carla Hill, he was a beloved father, son, brother, and friend who left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Ryan grew up in Dixon, where he attended St. Anne School and Newman Central Catholic High School. He had a deep sense of patriotism, which led him to join the Army. Ryan served his country with honor as a Sergeant First Class Combat Medic, specializing in operations planning for the 330th Medical Brigade, Headquarters and Headquarters Company. He was twice deployed, serving combat tours as a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. His bravery and dedication to his nation were unwavering, and those who served alongside him remember his loyalty, leadership, compassion, and camaraderie.

To describe Ryan as funny, thoughtful, and friendly would be an understatement. He had the rare ability to light up a room with his humor, to listen with an open heart, and to extend a hand of friendship to anyone in need. He was also a skilled craftsman who loved tools and woodworking, often creating beautiful pieces for his family and friends or generously lending exactly the right tool from his collection. He found great joy in building Lego creations with his kids, turning simple blocks into cherished memories. He was a die-hard fan who loved the Bears and the Cubs even when they made it painfully clear they didn’t love him back, enduring every miserable season with stubborn loyalty and a good sense of humor.

Ryan’s memory lives on through his three beautiful children, Ayla, Colette, and Samuel Hill, who were the pride and joy of his life. He is survived by his loving parents; sisters, Nichol (Joshua) Hooker and Courtney (Kevin) Moench; and many nieces and nephews, in whom Ryan took great joy as their funcle.

When someone passes from this life, we often look at the "born" and "died" dates when, in reality, the joy, sorrow, happiness, pain, love, and laughter all happen in the dash—the space between those two days. 

To honor Ryan’s dash, a visitation will be held on Friday, August 23rd, from 4pm—7pm at Jones Funeral Home ( 204 South Ottawa, Dixon, Illinois 61021) concluding with the Rosary. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, August 24th, at 11am at St. Anne Catholic Church (1104 N. Brinton Avenue, Dixon, Illinois 61021). 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributing to a memorial fund for his children's Catholic education, as well as the Dixon American Legion Post 12.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/sergeant-first-class-ryan-hill/obituary/

Copy