Joseph E. Hill, September 1, 2023

Celebrating the Life of Joseph

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our founder, Joseph E. Hill, on September 1, 2023.

Joseph lived an exceptional and accomplished life, touching the lives of many and leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. As a youth, he was full of mischief, highly energized, and always on the lookout for ways to make money. He took on various jobs such as newspaper and magazine routes, shoveling snow, and running errands. He even learned to play golf by caddying for golfers. Joe was also an outstanding athlete, excelling in football, baseball, and basketball. He was a proud member of the State Championship football team at Weymouth High School, which went on to win the Federal Championship at the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, FL, in 1951.

Joseph’s entrepreneurial spirit shone throughout his life. He honed his cooking skills while selling Wear Ever Cookware to customers. Even as an underclassman, he successfully organized after-prom dances at Coral Gables in North Weymouth. Through these endeavors, he was able to purchase his first car. His classmates recognized his style and voted him “Best Dressed” at graduation. By the time he was 18, Joseph was involved in local and state politics, serving as Vice President of the Young Democrats of Massachusetts. Under his leadership, the Young Democrats helped shift the South Shore from Republican to Democratic.

Joe’s passion for politics and people was evident in his legendary interpersonal skills. To meet Joe was to know him, as he formed numerous friendships both locally and around the world. He cherished the company of notable figures such as President Truman, President Kennedy, and Speaker Tip O’Neill. Every winter, Joseph traveled to Monaco, where he developed lifelong friendships. He maintained these connections by sending news articles, photos, making calls, and participating in social events. His friends brought immense joy to his life, and the Hill and Anderson families extend their gratitude to all who shared in his journey.

Joseph was also an inventive mind, creating products that are still in use in many successful places across America. Fifty years ago, he founded Public Action for the Arts and enlisted Helen Hayes to help persuade the state of Massachusetts to allocate lottery income to support the arts—a pioneering achievement in the nation. Joseph’s tireless efforts provided decades of art drawing contests for the children of Boston’s after-school programs.

Though Joe never married, he was a beloved uncle to three generations of nieces and nephews who joyfully participated in the Christmas Eve celebrations he orchestrated. He is lovingly remembered by his sister Annette, her husband Arthur, and their family, as well as by his brother John, his wife Mary, and their family. He is predeceased by his wonderful mother Anna, his younger sister Ann Cecelia and brother Charles.

“Uncle Joe” was incredibly cared for by his sister Annette and each of her children and their families, as well as by John and his family. His love, generosity, and vibrant spirit will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Thank you God for the life of Joseph-our brother, uncle, and friend. Joseph will be in residence at the family plot overlooking Willow Pond at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge, MA.