Cary “KK” Hill died on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 as a result of a sudden and unexpected health event.
“KK” saw the light of day in Yazoo City, Mississippi on November 3, 1954 to Cary L. “Chief” Hill, Sr. and Marguerite Thomas Hill. From that day on “KK”, as he affectionately became known, grew into an interesting and talented person.
From an early age, “KK” was loved and nurtured by his parents, was a smart student, an entertainer, an understudy in his mother’s Lebanese kitchen, had a mind for history, a knack for design and other artistic talents which he carried forward into adulthood.
For many years “KK” was an accomplished window and floral designer, designing windows for The Rogue men’s clothing store in Jackson, the Governor’s Mansion for floral décor as well as coordination and design for an untold number of weddings and large social events in the Capital City.
“KK” was widely known and was truly a friend to many, ranging from those who would be considered ordinary working people to high society and the politically prominent in the state and across the south. They were all the same to “KK”.
“KK” loved his Lebanese heritage. He won the title as Champion Kibbee cooker several times and was always gracious to provide his special recipe dish for social events and to the table of grieving families at southern funerals.
Never meeting a stranger, “KK” was the consummate host and director of the Yazoo City Triangle Cultural Center. He held the keys to the Sam Olden Historical Society Museum and never failed to welcome and made to feel at home anyone who wanted to visit the museum.
“KK” was a spirited encourager to many of Yazoo City’s youth who came through the Triangle Cultural Center. Art students, ballet students, high school play performers and stage crews were always welcome, encouraged and assisted by “KK”.
No question, “KK” was a unique kind of guy, but his love of community and its people shown through at every turn. He was protective of the reputation of his community and his many, many friends. “KK” would not shrink from correcting wrong statements or erroneous information regarding the things and people he loved and admired.
“KK” will be missed by so many it would be hard to number and difficult to know where these may be, as his friends and talented influence spreads far and wide across the south.
He was a generous and caring person whose friendship and endeavors will be missed for many years to come.
He was preceded in death by his father, Chief Hill and his mother, Marguerite Hill; also a half brother, Ray S. Hill (widow: Patricia) of DeKalb, MS. He is survived by a half-brother, Cary L Hill, Jr. (Janie) of Gulf Shores, AL; and a half-sister, Scharlotte Mathews (Wayne) of Mobile, Al; Maternal Aunt Jeanella Thomas Fratesi, numerous cousins and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, Jackson, Mississippi at 2 p.m., Wednesday, February 22, 2017 with a reception to follow at the Mississippi Museum of Art.
Memorial gifts may be made to the “KK” Hill Fund for Final Expenses at Bank of Yazoo City and / or BankPlus locations in Yazoo City.
