Gilbert Myron Hill was born May 1, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois to his proud parents, Everett "Chink" and Margaret Hill. Gilbert was a standout both academically and athletically as he lettered in several sports. In the early 50's, Mr. Hill was well-known for back to back State Wrestling Championships at Sexton High School. After graduation, he served our country for three years in the United States Army, 82nd Airborne Division.
He was a licensed professional counselor having received his Bachelor's in Social Science at Michigan State University, as well as his Master's in Counseling from his beloved MSU. Believing that "education was the gateway to success," he combined his belief in education and his desire to help others achieve their goals as he served as a Program Director of the Boys and Girls Club, teaching math and journalism, K-12 and Adult Education and served as CEO of the Family Resource Center.
Gilbert was an avid reader and for many years he ran the Magic Johnson Reading Camp, alongside Lansing's Own, Earvin Johnson. Reading fueled his entrepreneurial spirit and gave birth to his investment savvy; as it was his belief that all things being equal: "Money should make money".
Gilbert was a faithful member of Mount Olive "Bible Believing" Baptist Church, he loved to sing and share his talents. He served over 30 years in many capacities including: the Men's Chorus Voices of Valor, leading Bible Studies, and providing valuable advice in areas of real estate purchases and educational resources. Gilbert served throughout the community including: the Kiwanis Club, the Sickle-Cell Anemia Foundation, the Cancer Foundation and several others.
At age 80, Gilbert retired after 40 years as a Guidance Counselor and Department Head of Lansing Community College (LCC). Gilbert utilized every part of his experience to inform his interpersonal relations from working in the factory at Oldsmobile; to working as a Coordinator of Lansing School Board and walking the Campus of LCC. It was his great pleasure to help others right up through his final days.
Gilbert was preceded in death by: his parents, Margaret and "Chink" Hill; brothers, Raymond and Norvel Hill; sister Bernita Taylor.
On January 7, 2016, Gilbert departed from his earthly home with his loving niece, Vanessa Hill-Bell by his side.
He leaves to remember all of his witty antidotes; his sons, James Johnson, Bryant Hill, Bryce Hill, Eric Alan King-Hill; his daughter, Rev. Kim Reni Hill-Parker; grandchildren, great grandchildren; his brother, Michael Hill-Davis; and a host of special nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Gilbert was loved by many and will be missed by all.
Mr. Gilbert Myron Hill will lie in repose Friday, January 15, 2016, 3-6pm at Riley Funeral Home, 426 W. St. Joseph Street, Lansing, MI 48933. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 16, 2016, 11am, at Greater Love Apostolic Temple, 505 Seymour Avenue, Lansing MI 48933. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral. Memories and condolences may be shared at
www.rileyfuneralhome.com
.