James (Jim) Hill

James (Jim) Franklin Hill, 95, Kingsport, died May 9^th, 2019 in Crestview, Florida.

Jim attended schools in Earle, AR and Louisville, KY and was a graduate of the University of Louisville. He received a B.S. degree in Chemical Engineering from the U. of Louisville.  He joined the U.S. Army April 1943, serving in Europe and was honorably discharged March 28, 1946.

He was happily married to his wife, Rhodonda (Rod), for 61.5 years. In July 1951 they moved to Kingsport, TN where he worked with Tennessee Eastman in Plastics sales. In September 1953 they moved their family to New Jersey and later to St. Louis, MO, Memphis, TN and Chicago, IL; returning to Kingsport in November 1969.  At that time, they realized there was little information for people with diabetes.  Along with seven others they developed by-laws and started the Kingsport Diabetes Association (KDA), working tirelessly with KDA for 30+ years.  Jim retired from Eastman May 1987 after 36 years of service.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife (Rod), his brother (Edward) and daughter (Rebecca).

Jim was a beloved and devoted husband, father, grand and great grandfather. Surviving are his son (David) and wife (Susan) of Crestview, FL; Grandchildren Corey (wife Katie), and their 4 children, Lorelei, Jack, Felicity and Sloan; and Leslie Smith (husband Nate) and their son Noah.

The family will receive friends from 1 till 2pm Saturday, May 25^th, 2019 at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Downtown.  A service will follow at 2pm with Dr. Marvin Cameron officiating.

Burial will follow in Oak Hill Memorial Park with military graveside rites to be presented by the American Legion Post 3/ 265.

 In lieu of flowers donations to the Kingsport Diabetes Association  are appreciated and may be sent to P.O. Box 3952 Kingsport, TN. 37664.