Benedict Hill, age 100, passed away on August 15, 2024. His death was peaceful and, per his wishes, took place in his Hampton, Virginia home, his residence for the past 57 years. In his final days, Ben's family was grateful for this time to share memories with him, to exchange words of love, and to provide comfort and care to the amazing man who, throughout his life, had done the same for them.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents; his six siblings; his son, Dennis; his grandsons, Jeff Moore and Cliff Winton; and the love of his life, Delta Ilene.  He lost Ilene, whom he referred to as "the girl of my dreams," shortly after celebrating their 67th wedding anniversary.

Ben is survived by his daughters, Patty Nicholas (Nick) and Linda Winton (Allen); his grandchildren, Alan Moore (Jeannie Wasaff), Stacey Winton (Pete Donnelly), Brandy Collins, John Nicholas, and Summer Bie; and numerous great grandchildren, including Justin Zuniga (Angelo), Amber Saro, and Kellan Donnelly.

Ben was raised on a farm in Kentucky but was orphaned at the age of eleven. In the midst of the depression, he and his siblings were separated, sent to live with various relatives and friends. After a tumultuous few years, Ben ended up in Boys Town, Nebraska, where he completed his high school education. While there, he was also given real-world training, as both a barber and a machinist (receiving honors as the top student in mechanical arts). Ben's time at Boys Town and his interactions with its founder, Father Flanagan, were life-changing and life-saving experiences. He always became emotional as he recounted his last conversation in Boys Town, during which Father Flanagan told him, "Ben, you're never alone." Pointing up, this great man added, "Whatever you need, just ask."

Ben's faith and his devotion to the church never wavered. He raised his three children, guided by the principles of hard work and self-reliance, coupled with a belief in a higher power and the basis for all religions: treat others as you wish to be treated.

After a long career as a machinist at the Newport News Shipyard, Ben retired at the age of 63. After that, he and Ilene travelled extensively throughout the United States, collecting American art pottery and Coca Cola memorabilia, which they sold through their small business, "Hill's Collectibles." Ben was also an exceptional carpenter and craftsman and used those skills to help his family whenever needed and to provide them with cherished gifts.

Those who knew and loved Ben will never forget the impact he had on their lives. His time on this earth was truly an example of "a life well lived."

Arrangements are by Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions in Hampton.