Rev. Winston "Bud" Hill

Rev. Winston “Bud” Hill, a beloved pastor, educator, and community servant of the Todd community, passed away on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at the age of 87.

He was born in Delaware, Ohio on June 15, 1937 to the late Winston Wallace Hill Sr. and Charlotte Hill. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by one sister, Arden Frederick.

Bud dedicated his life to ministry, education, training, and empowering others through compassion and service. He earned his bachelor’s degree in English and History from Wilmington College in 1963, followed by a Master of Divinity from Andover Newton Theological School in 1967. His passion for spiritual growth and personal development led him to further studies in Spiritual Counseling in Denver, Colorado, after which he worked as a spiritual counselor in Ohio for several years.

Bud then transitioned into the business world, where he enjoyed a 16-year career in training and development. He served as the Corporate Training and Development Director for Adria Pharmaceutical Laboratories. Throughout his professional journey—whether in corporate boardrooms, classrooms, or church settings—Bud was especially well known for his creativity, innovation, and his flair for using drama, video and music to train, teach, and minister to others.

Later in life, Bud brought his gifts to the mountains of North Carolina, where he became known locally for his leadership of the Individual Development Account (IDA) program in Ashe County and Sparta—an initiative that helped individuals and families achieve financial independence and stability. He also taught at Wilkes Community College for several years, where his encouraging presence left a lasting impression on both students and colleagues.

Bud was also a man of deep and living faith, he served at the First Reformed United Church of Christ in High Point, the “Open Door” ministry, and the Men’s Shelter. His years of experience in sales helped him to manage private assistance programs and his passion for serving the underserved and building inclusive communities was evident in everything he did. He also served on various community boards, always bringing vision, empathy, and commitment to the table.

He is survived by his wife, Jean Ellen Hill of Todd, two daughters, Barbara Heidt and husband, Michael of Virginia, Meredith English and husband, Brian of Ohio, two step-children, Christopher Sorensen and wife, Vibeke of Denmark, Barbara Jean Sorensen of Brevard, North Carolina and a brother-in-law, Earl J. Frederick of Lake Forest, Illinois. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Per his request a private family Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made in Bud's honor to Samaritan's Purse; PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 or to the CART Fund for Alzheimer's Research in care of the Ashe County Rotary Club; PO Box 1054, Jefferson, NC 28640.

Those who knew Bud will remember his generous spirit, vibrant personality, and the imaginative ways he connected with people. He had a unique ability to meet others where they were, offering guidance, humor, and hope. His legacy is one of creativity, service, and love—a true reflection of a life well-lived in service to others.