Obituary of Jerald Walter Hill

November 22, 2020, Jerald Walter “JW” Hill passed from this world to his eternal home. JW was not only a basketball legend in the Verdigris Valley, but a beloved husband, son, brother, father, grandfather and friend. Born December 30, 1934 in Pryor Creek, Oklahoma, the son of the late Walt and Opal Hill. JW, known as “Ace” Hill to the basketball community where he grew up and will always be remembered for his love of basketball. Valedictorian of his 1953 class at Pryor High School, he was a four-year letterman in basketball, football and baseball and helped bring the Pryor Tigers the Verdigris Valley State Championship. The first in 30 years, and was named All State Player in 1953. After graduating from Northeastern State College in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science in Education JW went onto teach and coach in Derby, Kansas, until returning to his beloved Oklahoma where he joined Kerr-McGee Oil and Gas Exploration Company, where he ran logistics. After retiring, he enjoyed attending OU Football games, OKC Thunder games, playing or teaching Bridge, traveling with the 89er RV Club, and spending time with his auction buddies. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Walter and Opal Hill, brother Don, his wife Wanda and his beloved Yorkie, Chloe. He was a fierce competitor in all the challenges he encountered, and that was never more evident than in his final days. Survivors include- Lynne Renee Hill of Yukon, OK., Tammye Jo Kuntz and husband, Philip of Aledo, TX., Geraldine Ann Pratt of Yukon, Ok. Step sons- Edward Albert Kyle and wife Kendra of Blanchard, OK., Gregory Todd Kyle of Dallas, TX. Grandchildren- Brandi Stevenson, Robert Stevenson, Austin Lightfoot, Samantha Lightfoot, Jacob Pratt, Audrey Pratt, Zachary Kyle and wife Brenna, Nathan Kyle and wife Misty, Ryan Kyle, Matthew and Caitlyn Kyle, and numerous great grandchildren. The family would like to express it’s special thanks to the staff at Baylor Scott White Hospital in Grapevine, TX., the staff at Woodbridge and Arden Place in Grapevine. A private family ceremony will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pryor High School Youth Basketball Programs; P.O. Box 548, Pryor, OK. 74362. Attn: Don Raleigh, Superintendent.