James Hill

James Owen Hill, age 89, a resident of Mobile, Alabama, passed away peacefully on the morning of February 16, 2026.

James was born in Amorita, Oklahoma, to Leonard and Clara Hill, one of ten children in a close-knit family. Affectionately known as “Jim,” he attended Burlington Public School, where he served as class president and proudly maintained perfect attendance from first grade through graduation.

He went on to attend the Oklahoma State University, studying mechanical engineering. During the Korean War, Jim answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. While in the service, he worked as a helicopter mechanic and pilot, helping convert helicopters into medical evacuation aircraft for the military — work that reflected both his mechanical skills and steady dedication.

After returning home, Jim met the love of his life, Doris. They were married in August of 1959 and shared 63 beautiful years together — a marriage marked by devotion, faithfulness, and unwavering love until her passing in 2022. There is comfort in knowing he is now reunited with her once again.

Jim built a successful career with Otasco Department Stores, rising through the company’s ranks. He was eventually sent to Mobile, Alabama, to open new stores and served as local president and general manager until his retirement.

Living on the Gulf Coast brought Jim great joy. He loved boating and deep-sea fishing and embraced coastal life fully. A talented woodworker and skilled mechanic, he could build or fix just about anything. He valued discipline and health, faithfully working out at the gym and running three miles a day until the age of 81.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Laurie Ruffin; his granddaughters, Brandy (Odell) Chestang, Shannon (Chad) Parnell, and Amber Ruffin Dean; and nine cherished great-grandchildren: Michael (Brianna) Jones, Mason (Madison) Chestang, Miyah Chestang, Maggie Chestang, Macey Jones (preceded him in death), Harbor Parnell, Demeigh Parnell, Parker Dean, and Haven Dean. He is also survived by two great-great-grandchildren, Andrew and Rosie Jones. He leaves behind his brother, Dan Hill, and his devoted niece, Jane Roberts, his loving nephew Michael Julian Collin's ll, and family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at The Malone Chapel, 3871 Wulff Road, Semmes, Alabama 36575.