Joe Hill

Joe Hill

February 1, 1931 – October 21, 2026

Joe Hill, born February 1, 1931, to James Henry Hill and Mary Ruth Kerns Hill in the coal community of Tom’s Creek in Coeburn, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, with his family by his side.

Joe was a devoted servant of the Lord who faithfully dedicated 63 years of his life to ministry as an ordained minister. Throughout his years of service, he pastored Brick Church in Rye Cove, Virginia, for 10 years and Morrison City Mission in Kingsport, Tennessee, for 17 years. He was also the first pastor of Friendship Chapel, where he faithfully served for 36 years until his passing. Throughout his many years in ministry, Joe officiated at more than 460 funerals, offering comfort, compassion, and spiritual guidance to countless families during times of loss. His life was a testament to his unwavering faith, his love for the Lord, and his commitment to sharing the Gospel with others. His ministry touched countless lives, and his legacy of faith will continue for generations to come.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years, Jo Ann Hill; his brothers, Clyde Hill and Carl Hill; and his sisters, Henrietta Roach and Carolyn Cunningham.

Those left to cherish his memory are his four children: Ron Hill (Sherry Hill), Dickie Hill (Robin Hill), Jan Sherfey (Larry Sherfey), and Mike Hill (Cheyanne Hill); eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his special brother-in-law, J. C. Stanley (Nancy), along with many dear friends and loved ones.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to his caregivers, Remy Stidham and Cathy Ball, for their kindness, compassion, and care. Special appreciation is also extended to Mark Dorton for his spiritual care and support, as well as to the many other special friends who have been a blessing to Joe and his family.

Joe's life and faith are beautifully reflected in the words of 2 Timothy 4:7:

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

These words serve as a fitting tribute to a man who faithfully served the Lord throughout his life and remained steadfast in his calling until the very end.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Scott County Funeral Home in Weber City, Virginia. The funeral service will follow, with Pastor Phil Kestner, Pastor Wayne Baker, and Pastor Allen Freedell officiating. Special music will be provided by his great-granddaughter, Kennedy Johnson.

A graveside service will be held Monday, October 26, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Oak Hill Cemetery in Kingsport, Tennessee, with Mike Ervin officiating. Pallbearers will be his grandsons and grandsons-in-law, Brian Hill, Nick Sherfey, Jason Sherfey, Dustin Hill, Jackson Hill, Josh Johnson, and Sawyer Sams.

Honorary Pallbearers will be the deacons of Friendship Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Second Harvest Food Bank in honor of Joe's life and legacy by visiting https://netfoodbank.org/involved/donate-monetarily/

Joe's life was marked by faith, love, and faithful service to his Lord and Savior. Though he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and congregation, the impact of his life and ministry will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His race is finished, his faith remains, and his eternal reward awaits.

To express condolences to the family please visit our website at www.cartertrent.com

Carter-Trent/ Scott County Funeral Home is serving the Hill family.