Norman Jasper Hill, age 77, passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at his son’s home in Myrtle, following a brief illness. Per Mr. Hill’s request, he will be cremated.
Born on October 16, 1948, to the late John Washington and Ruby Lee Sappington Hill, Norman was a member of Shady Grove Baptist Church and proudly served his country as a United States Army veteran. After his military service, Norman worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator. He eventually retired and enjoyed sixteen years of retirement.
Norman was a one-of-a-kind man who lived life in his own way. He was never one to apologize for who he was or what he believed, and those who knew him best would not have wanted him any other way. He lived a simple life and found happiness in the things he loved most.
If there was one thing Norman loved more than just about anything, it was dirt racing. In fact, those who knew him might say he loved racing more than the air he breathed. He enjoyed building race trucks and could spend hours talking about racing or working with heavy equipment. He had a natural talent for operating machinery and truly enjoyed being behind the controls of just about anything he could get his hands on.
To his family and those closest to him, Norman was affectionately known as “Papa” or “Old Man.” He had a gift for conversation and could talk to just about anybody. He made friends easily and seemed to know everyone he met. His stories, opinions, and unmistakable personality made him someone who was hard to forget.
Norman loved being outdoors and enjoyed the simple pleasures of everyday life. One of his favorite routines was drinking his coffee—black, all day, every day. It did not matter whether the weather was hot or cold; Norman always had his coffee close by.
More than anything, Norman leaves behind the memories of a life that was uniquely his own. His family and friends will remember his love of racing, his passion for heavy equipment, his enjoyment of the outdoors, his endless cups of black coffee, and, most of all, the conversations and moments they shared with him. His presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Those left to cherish Norman’s memory include his son, Marcus Hill (Michelle) of Myrtle; five grandchildren, Audrey Burks (Joey), Chance Clayton (Gabi), Brooke Greenhill (Cody), Carley Gibson, and Lindsey Hill, all of New Albany; twelve great-grandchildren; and a host of friends.
He was preceded in death by his two daughters, Ginger Michelle Hill and Deborah Jo Hill; three sisters, including his twin, Norma Ruth Breland, as well as Hazel Churchill and Lynne Mansel; one niece, Renita Churchill Jones; and one brother, Wayne Hill.
Norman may have lived a simple life, but he left an unforgettable impression on the people around him. He was loved, he was known, and he will be missed more than words can express.
New Albany Funeral & Cremation Care invites you to share memories and condolences with the Hill family.
