James Hill Obituary

James A. “Peabody” Hill of Hopewell, Virginia, departed this life on November 10, 2025, at Wonder City Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Hopewell, Virginia. James was born to the late Augusta M. Hill and the late Solomon M. Hill, Sr. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Rosemary Hill and Shirley Hill, and one brother, Edward “Mo” Hill.

James was baptized at Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Hopewell, Virginia, at an early age.  He attended Hopewell Public Schools, where he proudly played in local championship basketball games alongside his brother Mo. Sports were one of his greatest joys, whether he was cheering for the Los Angeles Lakers, the Dallas Cowboys, or watching a good boxing match, he watched with the same intensity you’d expect from a coach on the sidelines-complete with commentary.  Anyone who knew him knows he had plenty of commentary.

He loved vintage cars, especially Cadillacs, and could spot a good one from a mile away. Yard-sailing was another one of his favorite adventures-because nobody found bargains like James.  If there was a deal to be found, he would find it and probably tell you the whole story about it later-with a smile.

James was a natural social butterfly. Spending time with family and friends brought him genuine joy.  He had friends of all ages, and he treasured every conversation-whether at the neighborhood basketball courts in the Arlington Heights or the Five Forks area, Tabb Avenue, his home or anywhere throughout Hopewell and Petersburg. Seeing familiar faces and sharing stories (and jokes) always made his day.  He had a gift for making people feel welcome-and that wasn’t just talk.  James opened his home to individuals who were going through difficult times, offering them a safe place to stay, a sense of dignity, and the support they needed to get back on their feet. That was just who he was generous, compassionate, and giving without hesitation.

Early in his life, James worked as an avid groundskeeper, gaining extensive expertise in lawn care, building services, and facility upkeep.  These early experiences paved the way for a career that became one of the great loves of his life: his work with the Hopewell Public School System. James loved his work at Hopewell High School (loved it). He cheered for the students like he was cheering for his own family. That school wasn’t just his workplace; it was a place that held a piece of his heart for over 18 years, he served faithfully as a Custodial Supervisor, taking pride in keeping the school safe, clean, and welcoming. And he didn’t just do the job-he cared about it.  He cared about the students, the staff, the building, and the people he worked alongside. Even after retiring early due to injury in 2018, his spirit never left those halls.  His laughter, his presence, and his dedication continue to be remembered fondly by countless students, teachers, administrators and co-workers.

James leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Sherena Howard; his son, James D. “JD” Pettaway; a devoted sister, Diane E. Hill; a devoted brother and sister-in-love, Minister Solomon M. Hill, Jr. and Reverend Wanda Hill; a devoted brother, Moses Holloway (Edith); his mother-in-love, Mildred Hill; and a beloved granddaughter, Anya Howard. James is also survived by his nieces, Cherae Hill (devoted), April Jordan and Katima Holloway; nephews, Reverend Kenneth Mattox, Williams Davis IV, Minister Ivan Mattox (Keisha), Reverend Solomon Hill III (Porsche), Musa, Sami, Nasir and Anwar Holloway; numerous great and second great nieces and nephews; and several cousins, including devoted cousins, April Taylor and family, and Louise Hill and family; the Sanders family and the Jones, McDougal and Hunt families all of Hopewell.

He also leaves behind many cherished friends, including devoted friends, Charles Vaughn, Jr. and family, Otis Taylor and family, Milton Taylor and Family, Kevin Anderson, and his beloved community members from the Tabb Avenue neighborhood; along with a host of former co-workers, extended relatives and community members who lives he touched with his kindness, humor and generosity.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Staff of River View on the Appomattox Health & Rehab Center and Wonder City Rehabilitation & Nursing Center for their compassionate and exemplary care.

James lived life with heart, laughter, and loyalty. He made people feel seen, welcomed, and supported. He worked with pride and he loved deeply. James also leaves behind memories that will continue to bring comfort and smiles for years to come.

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Thursday, November 20, 2025, in the Chapel of J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Michael Brown, eulogist, and Rev. Dr. Gregory M. Howard, officiating. The interment to follow at Wilkerson Memorial Cemetery.

At the request of the family, there will be no public viewing for James A. "Peabody" Hill.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.