My earthly brother for 57 years, Steve Hill (1957-2015) was abruptly called “home” on January 14, 2015. BROTHER Hill, graduate and 36 year veteran teacher of Portland Christian School, was where he was called to serve living out his Christian faith. As his brother, I was honored to pay tribute to an overwhelming crowd of 700+ at Portland this past Sunday January 18th. My first comment was: “Steve always said he could draw a bigger crowd than me!” And that he did, with administrators, faculty, former / present students, ministers, family and friends. The last time we worked together was in the Prophecy Seminar and Steve led the congregational singing at Sellersburg. For those of us who remain, Steve, who is now among the “GREAT CLOUD OF WITNESSES” (Hebrews 1) cheering us on – would say: “Don’t quit! Don’t give up! Continue to “FIGHT the good fight! FINISH the race! KEEP THE FAITH! Because there’s a CROWN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS waiting – and especially if you LOVE THE APPEARING OF THE LORD.” (2 Timothy 4:7,8) When you see where I am now – you’ll be convinced: IT’S WORTH IT!
Bro. Earl C. Mullins, Jr. also shared in the tribute referring us to John 14 and challenging us to listen to what Bro. Hill taught us! Even though we may not know the WHY – we know the WHO! Bro. Earl opened up the mic for any who desired to share some Steve-ISMS! Obviously Bro. Hill influenced many and will be remembered for his character, honesty, dedication, commitment, sense of humor, but above all, his love for the Lord.
Bro. Randy Coultas, Steve’s minister at the Hamburg Church of Christ had the final honors of paying tribute to this man of God and faithful servant teacher and helper at Hamburg.
We rejoice that Bro. Hill is in the presence of Jesus, whom he loved and served his entire life. We ask for your prayers for all who knew and loved him, especially his wife, Dana, and family. Because of his obedience to Christ and his love for his family and students, God touched thousands of lives through Bro. Hill and we are eternally grateful that we had the privilege of calling him colleague, teacher, and friend.
Bennie Hill is minister of the Cramer and Hanover Church of Christ
Lexington, KY