James Nelson Hill, 83, of Ribolt, Kentucky, passed away Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Pioneer Trace Healthcare & Rehabilitation in Flemingsburg, following an extended illness.

Born January 1, 1942, in Vanceburg, KY, he was the son of the late Eugene C. Hill and Helen Jeanette Pollitt Hill. James dedicated 36 years of service to CSX Transportation, where he retired as a Track Foreman in 2002. Earlier in his career, he served as Assistant Track Supervisor but later chose to step down from that position so he could remain closer to home and work out of Maysville—reflecting his deep commitment to both his profession and his family.

A proud Master Mason, James was a dedicated member of the Free and Accepted Masons of Russellville Lodge #166. He was also a 32° Scottish Rite Mason in the Valley of Cincinnati and a member of the Ohio Eastern Star. He was a faithful member of Mt. Tabor Community Church, where he previously served as Church Treasurer. He lived a life guided by the principles of honor, service, and brotherhood.

James is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Nellie Dianne Thoroughman Hill, whom he married on June 6, 1964. Together they were blessed with four sons: Jeffrey (Phyllis) Hill of Burlington, Randall (Robin) Hill of Goshen, OH, Michael Hill of Ribolt, and Jason (Daniel) Hill of Florence, KY.

He is also survived by one brother, Roger (Vickie) Evans of Vanceburg, and three sisters: Lorna Hill Johnson of California, Kathy Stewart, and Denene Cochran, both of San Angelo, Texas. Additional surviving family include his brother-in-law, James Thoroughman of Fort Thomas, and sister-in-law, Juanita Hyrne of Independence.
He was the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren and great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Ronnie Hill and Eugene C. “Pic” Hill; his stepmother, Katherine Hill; his father- and mother-in-law, Wilbur and Nellie Thoroughman; and brothers-in-law George Hillis Thoroughman, David Hyrne, and Gayle Thoroughman.

James will be remembered for the quiet sacrifices he made throughout his life to provide for his family. He was a selfless, fraternal man—always supportive and deeply proud of his family’s accomplishments, yet never boastful. His steady presence, humility, and unwavering love leave a legacy that will be carried forward by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 9, at 1:00 PM at Mt. Tabor Community Church in Ribolt. Burial will follow in the Mt. Tabor Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 8, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Gaydos Funeral Home in Vanceburg, and on Wednesday from 11:00 AM until the hour of service at the church. Masonic services will be provided by Russellville Lodge #166.
Pallbearers will be Jason Hill, Jeffrey Hill, Randy Hill, Daniel Carter, Eric Holtzclaw, and Jacob Collins. Honorary pallbearers will be Michael Hill, Robbie Thoroughman, and Jim Thoroughman.