James W. Hill

Dr. James W. Hill, Emporia, Kansas, passed away at the Emergency Department of Newman Regional Health, Emporia, at the age of 83.

James W. Hill was born in South Beach, California on April 7, 1942, while his parents were helping with the war effort in ship construction.  He was the son of William Elmer and Goldie (Althouse) Hill. James and Ralphea Daggett were married in Emporia, Kansas on December 20, 1969. She survives of the home. He is also survived by a nephew; Brian Hill, Raytown, Missouri, and niece;  Cheryl Hill-Forr, Columbia, Missouri. He was preceded in death by their son, Anthony, who passed away at age 19, as well as two brothers; William E. Hill and David Hill and his parents.

Dr. Hill grew up on a farm south or Emporia, attending Lowther Junior High, graduating from Emporia High School, and doing his undergraduate work at Kansas State Teachers College (now Emporia State University). He received his Doctorate degree in Chemistry from Southern Illinois University. Dr. Hill was a professor of Chemistry at Panhandle State University, Goodwell, Oklhoma, for much of his career. Later he returned to
Emporia and was on the faculty at Emporia State University until his retirement.  He was a member of the American Chemical Society, and had a love for cars, especially Packards, and was a member of the Packard Club of America.

Cremation is planned. A gathering of family and friends will be Saturday, October 4, 2025 from 2:00 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. at the American Legion, 2921 West 12th Avenue, Emporia, Kansas.

A memorial has been established to Ball-McColm Post #5, American Legion. Contributions may be left at the post, or sent to Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, PO Box #175, Emporia, Kansas 66801.