SEAFORD - An angel of the Lord was welcomed home in Heaven on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012.
Joann Parrish Hill was more than just a friend to anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. She could accomplish anything that she set her mind to, and she touched the lives of so many people in the community and through the charities that she supported. Her laugh was contagious, her hugs were remembered by all that experienced them, and had a smile that could brighten any room. She had an unselfish heart and would give anything to see that her friends or family were always entertained and happy to be in her presence. There are not enough words to explain the kind of person that she was; she will most certainly be missed in this life by friends, family and all she came to know. We will always love, cherish and forever hold in our hearts the 64 years that we were lucky enough to have with her. She will now walk with the Lord, and all that have passed before us. Until we walk with you again and hold your hand, we will hold the memories of you in our hearts forever, we love you.
Joann's contributions went beyond her local community. Since the mid-nineties, Joann played an instrumental role in Operation Smile's development as both a volunteer medical team member on numerous international medical missions and as a tireless fundraiser who, along with her loving husband, Jerry, co-chaired many of Operation Smile's fundraising events held on the Virginia Peninsula. In 2006, Operation Smile recognized Joann's outstanding achievements and dedication to children worldwide by naming her Operation Smile's "Volunteer of the Year." 'Joann was a remarkable spirit," said Dr. Bill Magee, Operation Smile Co-Founder. "Her generosity in both volunteerism and personal philanthropy has been an inspiration to her colleagues and friends alike. Joann was one of the most endearing, dedicated and hard-working volunteers that I have ever had the privilege to know. She'll always be remembered for her graciousness, boundless energy, contagious laugh, and especially for her genuine concern for others. The Operation Smile community deeply mourns her loss.'
Joann was a member of Beta Sigma Phi and active in her chapter Laureate Beta Omicron for 17 years. She exemplified the true meaning of sisterhood. Her service to her chapter projects was beyond measure. She was a shining light as her commitment to help others in need was endless. She will be remembered for her personality, laughter, love, friendship and the best hugs in the world. She was also a member of Big Brothers/Big Sisters and a past volunteer with the Animal Aid Society.
Joann was preceded in death by her parents, Kemp and Oletha Parrish; brother, Leon Parrish; and nephews, David and Adam Parrish.
Survivors include her husband, Jerry Hill; son, 'JP' James Parrish Hill and his wife, Joni Lynn Hill; 'lil sister,' Kristy Kojcsich; one brother, Roger Parrish and his wife, Judy of Danville, Va.; two grandchildren, Jacob Phillip Hill, Joshua James Hill; sister-in-law, Frances Lucido; and her two loving dogs, Elsie and Weezer.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 29, at Peninsula Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, March 1, at First Baptist Church, 12716 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23606, officiated by the Rev. Kevin Schrum of Buckroe Baptist Church. Burial will follow in Peninsula Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the Hill family requests that donations be made to Operation Smile, in honor of Joann Hill, at 6435 Tidewater Drive, Norfolk, VA 23509 or visiting: http://support.operationsmile.org/goto/joannparrishhill
Peninsula Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.