James Walter Hill (Sonny) 81, died Wednesday February 11, 2015 in Las Vegas, NV surrounded by his family. James was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years Florence (Durst) Hill; his oldest son Raymond James Hill of Ferndale WA; one sister Jacqueline Collins and one brother Thomas Hill. James leaves behind his daughter Tena M. (Hill) Yuchniuk of Oakdale CT and his son Randy Hill of Ferndale WA., as well as five grandchildren: Marc Simon (JR), Raylein Yuchniuk, Janine Yuchniuk, RJ Hill, and Amanda Shapiro. James also leaves behind eight great grandchildren: April Simon, Lily Simon, Chad Simon, Alexandra Norton, Aaron Simon, Michael Norton, Nathan Simon, and Zander Shapiro; three sisters Delores Tole, Pricilla Parks and Josephine Reed.

James was born and raised in Dora, MO the son of Moss and Thelma Hill. He lived and worked on the family farm until he graduated high school. After high school he joined the United States Air Force. After four years of service he was able to secure a civil servant job for the Air Force at Nellis Air Force base in Las Vegas, NV. James worked at Nellis Air Force base for 35 years as a weapons mechanic where he worked on some of the most advanced weapons systems of the time and received many accolades for his contributions to the industry. James loved to hunt, fish, and travel. In the summer James and his wife would vacation in Cedar Springs, MI. James and his wife eventually ended up moving to Ferndale, WA where he and his wife lived out the rest of their days.

James had many hobbies. He always kept himself busy, and always had a kind word to say. People that met him always describe him as the nicest man they ever met. James was dedicated to his job, his wife, and his family. He touched the lives of many people, but none more than his family. He will truly be missed.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, February 18, 2015 at the Ball Church of Christ, Dora MO with J.R. Simon officiating. Burial will follow in the Ball Cemetery with Full Military Honors. Visitation will be Wednesday afternoon from 1 p.m. to service time at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St Jude Children's Research Hospital; 501 St Jude Place; Memphis, TN 38105-1942. Arrangements are by Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO. Online condolences may be expressed at www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome.com.