Obituary of Richard T. Hill

Richard Thatcher Hill, 77, formerly of Bernardsville and Hopatcong, NJ, passed away at his home in Cleveland, TN, on July 28, 2025, with his wife of 48 years, Patricia, daughter Melissa, and son-in-law Paul by his side.

Born on November 14, 1947, Richard, known as Rick to all who knew him, was raised in Bernardsville, NJ, where he spent his formative years. He attended school locally and quickly became known for his sharp mind, his love of the marching band, and his commanding presence on stage. He starred in several school musicals; his favorite claim to fame being that he once kissed Meryl Streep on stage before she became a household name.

Rick married Patricia Marie LoSapio of Madison, NJ, in 1977, and together they settled in Hopatcong, where they raised their family and built a life full of memories, love, and resilience. In later years, Rick and Patricia relocated to Cleveland, TN, to be closer to Melissa and her husband.

Rick was unapologetically himself; fiercely loyal, deeply thoughtful, and endlessly devoted to those he loved. Beneath his sarcasm and cynicism was someone who cared profoundly, especially after the loss of his only son, Aaron George Hill, in 2008; grief he carried quietly for the rest of his life.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Rick later retired and filled his days reading, tackling crossword and jigsaw puzzles, watching golf (when he could no longer play), and debating politics and life with anyone bold enough to spar with him.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Marie (LoSapio) Hill; daughter Melissa Speer and her husband Paul; daughter Tara Marie Hill; brother James Hill and his wife Kit; and a large extended family of brother- and sister- in-laws, nieces, nephews, and close friends. He was predeceased by his beloved son Aaron, his niece Jessica, his parents Jane and George, stepfather Don Robinson, sister Cynthia, and his mother and father-in-law, Ricky and Tony LoSapio.

He didn’t sugarcoat anything, but he always showed up. And for those lucky enough to know him, his lessons and his voice will stay with us forever.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend the visitation for Rick to be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Madison Memorial Home, 159 Main Street, Madison, NJ. A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at 12:00 p.m. during the visitation. Immediately following the services, at 1:30 p.m. all are invited to attend a memorial lucheon at the Godfather Restaurtant, 200 Route 10, East Hanover, NJ 07936. 

A private burial will be held for the family on Monday, Spetember 15, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bernard's Cemetery, Bernardsville. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Purple Heart Foundation, in honor of his service to this country.