James Alva Hill

James Alva Hill, March 7, 1939 – September 24, 2026. 

James Alva Hill, age 87, passed away on September 24, 2026. Born on March 7, 1939, in Birmingham, Alabama, James was a proud Alabamian and Southern Baptist.

 His military journey began at the age of 16 when he joined the Alabama National Guard. He completed basic training at the age of 18 and, through hard work, dedication, achievement, and years of service, continued to advance in rank, ultimately becoming a Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2). James entered active duty with the United States Army in 1960. He attended Recondo School in 1965 and received specialized military training, including training with Special Forces and a nuclear clearance designation. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, including service in Vietnam in 1969. 

Throughout his distinguished military career, James received numerous medals, awards, and decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal with five awards, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Army Commendation Medal with 3rd Oak Leaf Cluster, Vietnam Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, one Overseas Service Bar, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal. His commitment to veterans and his community continued long after his military service. James served as Post Commander of VFW Post 6602 and was a member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), American Legion, and the Cooties. He was also a Mason.

 James enjoyed fishing, spending time in nature, thrifting, and salvaging. He especially loved his grandchildren and treasured the time he was able to spend with his family. 

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bernice Hill; his son-in-law, Gary Allen Arnold; his father, Robert Alva Hill; his mother, Mary Hill; his brother, Eugene Hill; his sister, Judy Isbell; and his nephew, Matthew Hill.

 He is survived by his three daughters, Pamela H. Schmidt (Stephen), Angela H. Lewis (Raymond), and Amanda D. Arnold.

 He is survived by his youngest sister, Melinda Clum.

 He is also survived by his grandsons, Kevin Schmidt (Whitney), Stuart Ross Lewis Jr. (Hannah), and Robert Milton Lewis; his granddaughters, Ashley Marie (Arnold) Wells (Clent) and Courtney Kay (Hagen) Goode; his great-grandsons, Elliot Ross Lewis, Ethan Grant Lewis, Eli James Lewis, Jack Allen Goode, Clyde Scott Goode, Clenton Arnold “Tripp” Wells, and Lane M. Deal; and his great-granddaughters, Madalynn Elizabeth Schmidt and Emma Grace Lewis.

 James will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His devotion to his family, his service to his country, his strong faith, and the memories he created throughout his life will continue to live on through those who loved him. 

James will be remembered as an American Army soldier, a realist, and a man who is now serving God. He was a dedicated husband, father, and family man. Alabama-born, Southern Baptist, and deeply proud of both, James lived his life with strength, conviction, service, and an unwavering love for his family and country.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 12 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 1 p.m. in the Chapel of Carter Funeral Home.

Burial with full military honors will follow the services at the Georgia Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Glennville.