Joseph Russell "Russ" Hill

YOUNGSVILLE – Joseph Russell “Russ” Hill, Jr., age 88, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, August 30, 2025.  Born in Philadelphia, PA on July 12, 1937, he was the son of the late Joseph Russell Hill, Sr. and Gertrude McCauley Hill.

Russ began his career with the Pennsylvania Railroad before moving on to Rohm and Haas. A graduate of Drexel University, he earned his degree in Civil Engineering and went on to become licensed in every state. His work reflected his diligence, integrity, and commitment to excellence.

Music was one of Russ’ greatest joys. He studied bassoon under Louis Angelucci of the Philadelphia Orchestra, who became like a second father to him. Russ went on to share his musical gifts by playing bassoon and contrabassoon with the Christ Baptist Orchestra and the Raleigh Civic Symphony Orchestra. He also delighted in teaching children to play handbells, leaving a lasting mark on the next generation of musicians.  He generously donated to music/classrooms for the musical education for children.  His other love was trains.  He was a member of the Union Pacific Historical Society and the Sandy River and Rangeley Lakes Railroad.  He had a roomful of trains with an intricate platform.

Russ was deeply involved in his community and service organizations. He was a proud Shriner, a member of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels, and a Past Master Mason.

Those who knew Russ remember him as a man of honesty, faith, and principle. He had a remarkable ability to bring out the best in others, and his warmth and sense of humor made him easy to love. He was known for his sharp eye when picking out jewelry and ties, and for being the only one Aunt Vivian would hug. Russ was described as loving, caring, kind, passionate, highly intelligent, and truly a man of God—an answer to prayer. To know him was to love him.

Above all, Russ was devoted to his family. He was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather whose love and presence shaped the lives of those dearest to him. To God be the glory for allowing Russ to touch so many hearts in such a profound way.

Russ is survived by his wife of 40 years, Linda Robbins Hill; his daughters, Karen Beacham and husband, Graybert, and Denise Marshall and husband, Chillie; his grandchildren, Bryce Marshall and River Vaughn and husband, Avery; and his beloved dog, Moonie.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Russ’ life will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 2:30 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Pastor Allen Langley officiating.  Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park.  Visitation with the family will be from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Russ’ memory to Christ’s Independent Baptist Church, 508 W. Nash Street, Elm City, NC  27822.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.