07/09/2025
Ronald Wayne Hill, 80, of Stillwater, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, surrounded by those he loved. Born on October 17, 1944, in Chandler, Oklahoma, to Joe Thomas “J.T.” Hill and Lillie Belle (Hicks) Hill, Ron lived a life of unwavering service, compassion, and strength.
Ron’s life was marked by a deep commitment to his family, his community, and his country.
After graduating from C.E. Donart High School in Stillwater, where he played football, baseball, and wrestled, Ron joined the Army Reserves, proudly serving his country at Fort Polk.
His dedication to service continued as he became a firefighter for the City of Stillwater, later being promoted to first Fire Marshal. This role sparked a long and impactful career in emergency management.
He went on to serve as Civil Defense Director for Payne County and later as Emergency Management Director for the City of Stillwater. He also gave of his time as a reserve police officer, always putting the safety and well-being of others first.
In 1991, Ron joined the Oklahoma State Department of Emergency Management, where he rose to the rank of Deputy Director. During his tenure, he played a vital role in response efforts following the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995—a moment that left a lasting impact on him and the state he loved.
His career later led him to OKC 911 as the 911 Coordinator, and ultimately to Oklahoma State University, where he served as Emergency Management Director.
Even after his “retirement,” Ron continued his work in service by joining the Payne County Health Department as the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for Region 2, where he finally retired after a lifetime of selfless public service.
Ron was a man of many passions. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life: riding his motorcycle through Oklahoma’s open roads, connecting with others as an amateur radio operator, and cherishing every moment with his family.
He was also a devoted animal lover and was never far from his four beloved furbabies: Tymber, Baxter, Koji, and Quigley, who brought him endless companionship and joy.
Ron is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Wanda (Lewis) Hill, whom he married on May 30, 1985. He is also survived by his son Rob Hill and wife Tracy of Stillwater; his daughter Lori (Hill) Battles and husband James Battles, Jr. of Perry; and his adored grandchildren, James Battles III, Makinze Hill, and Joshua Battles.
His legacy of strength, kindness, and duty will live on through them.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Joel Thomas Hill, and his stepdaughter Devin Marie Hill.
Ron’s life was a testament to what it means to serve—not just in uniform or in a title, but in every action, every career move, and every relationship he held dear. His love for his family, his unwavering dedication to public safety, and his gentle spirit will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
In accordance with his wishes, services will be private and are under the direction of Strode Funeral Home in Stillwater.
Though he has left this world, Ron’s legacy of service and love will remain a guiding light to those who knew and loved him.
Condolences may be sent to the family via website at https://www.strodefh.com/
