Retha Mae Hill

Retha Mae Scott was born on March 8, 1939, in Sunflower, Mississippi, to the late Shed and Ola Mae Scott. She relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, with her family when she was a young child and attended Cleveland Public Schools. She excelled in her academics and earned the distinction of summa cum laude, along with numerous awards and honors.

Following the untimely death of her mother, Retha and sister Dorothy assisted their father in raising their younger siblings, Randy and Renee. This pivotal moment helped shape Retha into the natural nurturer she became known for. She also developed skills as a fantastic cook, graduated from Glenville High School, and obtained employment at Case Western Reserve.

As a young adult, Retha accepted Christ and joined Jonas Temple Church of God in Christ. In 1961, Retha was united in holy matrimony to Howard Hill by the late Bishop Mack E. Jonas, and to this union five children were born. Her children were the apple of her eyes. At the birth of each child, Retha suspended working to stay at home with her children. She would later return to work as an executive secretary in accounts receivable at Rite Quick Shipping and Jet Line Transit Corporation. When her husband became ill, she retired from Cleveland Metropolitan Schools as an instructional assistant to become his full-time caregiver. She tirelessly assisted him with dialysis appointments, transportation, and daily living until his death in 2016. They were married for fifty-five years.

Retha served in various capacities at Jonas Temple. Under the leadership of the late Bishop Robert L. Chapman, she was a Sunday School teacher, AM radio weekly service broadcast announcer, Purity Class leader, adult choir member, Youth Coalition leader, and church secretary. Under the leadership of Bishop C. L. Kimbrough, she was appointed as a member of the Mother's Board. Standing at merely 4'11", Retha was often called "small but mighty."

She frequently spent Sunday afternoons serving in the church kitchen, where her specialties-candied yams and cornbread dressing-were always in high demand. She always had an encouraging word, stressed the importance of education, and had a special affection for the youth. She was instrumental in campaigning for off-site spiritual retreats and was a part of the inaugural youth camp committee. She often attended annual overnight youth retreats at Grand Valley Ranch and other local campsites.

Retha enjoyed cooking, traveling, and reading natural remedy magazines. One of her favorite quotes was, "If it is to be, it's up to me."

In 1990, a routine panel of medical tests revealed an abnormally low blood count of four. Further testing confirmed that she had colon cancer. Retha credited her faith in God for her remarkable recovery. She often testified that out of fifteen chemotherapy patients being treated at the time, she was the only survivor. She strongly believed in self-advocacy and was known to confidently challenge medical professionals when necessary, earning her the affectionate nickname "Dr. Retha." She remained cancer-free for the rest of her life.

Retha lived a rich and abundant life. She attended the high school and college graduations of her offspring, coached her daughters through labor and delivery, rallied behind her sons, and continually encouraged others to trust in God. She was quoted in The Journey of a Phenomenal Woman, Volume II, saying:

"Sometimes, situations come into your life that you do not understand. However, you must trust God and allow Him to have full control-even in the darkest hours. Being saved, filled with the Holy Ghost, and loving the Lord doesn't exempt anyone from sorrow, sickness, or trials and tribulations."

After a prolonged illness, Retha went peacefully from labor to reward on March 4, 2026, in her private Richmond Heights residence. She was able to transition in comfort due to the unwavering love and support of her children, especially her youngest, David, who was her constant champion, personal chef, comedian, and daily worship leader.

Retha was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Howard Hill; and her sons, Titus Lamar Hill and Howard Christopher Hill, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories her loving children: Angela Jordan (Daniel), April Saxon (Edward), and David Hill; and her son of the heart, Stephen Lott (Tracie). She is also survived by her sisters: Dorothy Johnson (the late Jack Johnson), Renee Adams, and Pamela Wooton (James); her brother, Randolph Scott (Vivian); her stepmother, Overa Scott; her brother-in-law, Nathaniel Hill; and fierce protector, Taz the dog.

Retha's legacy also lives on through her 10 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.