Ricki Hill 1954-2021
CLEVELAND — Mr. Ricki Hill, 66, beloved father, brother, uncle and friend, departed this life unexpectedly Saturday, July 17, 2021.
Ricki was born Nov. 1, 1954, a son of Leroy Hill and Pearl Jett Hill in Youngstown. He graduated from North High School in 1972, having made many lifelong friends. In school he was affectionately known among classmates as “Corey Baker,” nicknamed for the young son on the 1968 TV sitcom “Julia,” because of his ever present smile and infectious personality. After graduation, Ricki attended Kent State and Youngstown State universities, where he majored in political science. An avid reader, he was a lover of nonfiction, devouring books on politics, history, philosophy, and cultural and social issues. A keen and articulate observer of the national scene, Ricki reveled in an opportunity to vigorously debate political and social policy at every turn. He was a whiz in mathematics and sped through pages of equations as he did through life.
He loved sports, particularly the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James, good food and lively family gatherings. Ricki liked children and kids loved him back. At the time of his death, Ricki worked as a peer support specialist in Cleveland and Akron for an addiction and recovery program.
Ricki is survived by his daughter, Amy Joe White of Virginia Beach, Va.; sisters, Cherie Howard of Liberty and Vicki Young of Boardman; four brothers, Leroy Hill Jr. of Columbus, Jean Paul Hill of Cleveland, Toni (Eva) Hill of Atlanta, Ga. and Daryl Hill of Boardman; grandsons, Jacarri White and Jakaden White; nieces, Barbara Jean Lawson, Yauma Jones, Arias Shivers, Nikki Hill and Kristin Howard; nephews, Rashad Hill, Maurice Grissett and Preston Howard; and many cousins and cherished friends, especially Jacqueline Bonner.
He was predeceased by his parents; sister, Shirley Underwood; brother, Wilber Underwood Jr.; and nephew, Malcolm Omari Hill.
Ricki was so loved, a bright shining light. He will be missed and will live forever in the hearts of all those he touched.
Funeral services are private.
A service of love and dignity was entrusted to the L. E. Black, Phillips and Holden Funeral Home.
(special notice)