Jackie Dean “Jack” Hill, 84, of Jacksonville and formerly of Palatka, passed from this life peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born in West Frankfort, Illinois, he resided in Palatka for 23 years before moving to Jacksonville in September 2019. Jack served honorably for 12 years in the National Guard. He worked as a superintendent in the coal mine industry most of which was with Old Ben Coal Company and a few years with Kerr-McGee. Jack was a licensed private pilot and a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association. He had been a member of the Loyal Order of Moose Lodge #795 in West Frankfort and was a member of the College Road Church of Christ in Palatka where he had served as a deacon. Jack loved to “tinker”and had a keen ability to build and fix things and thoroughly enjoyed sharing this gift with those around him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Woodrow Hill and Rufus Willardean Herrin Hill, a son-in-law, Jim Petkas and 2 great-grandchildren, Lacey Petkas and Aidan Almodovar.
Jack is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Sandra R. Hill, 2 daughters, Jackie Sneddon (Gary) of Jacksonville and Debbie Petkas of West Frankford, IL, a sister, Shirley Walker of Kankakee, IL, 4 grandchildren, Brandon Petkas (Patty), Brooke Petkas, Heather Almodovar (Luis) and Matthew Sneddon, 5 great-grandchildren, Shalee Rich (Bryce), Seth Petkas, Wyley Petkas, Jaelyn Almodovar, Julian Almodovar and a great-great-grandchild, Slade Rich.
Due to Covid 19 restrictions and guidelines, memorial services celebrating Jack’s life will be announced at a later date.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Community Hospice and to Kathy from Home Life for the excellent care given to Jack in the latter weeks of his life.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Jack’s Book of Memories page at www.johnsonoverturffunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.