Rena Hill

Rena Hill, age 68, of Muskegon, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, July 25, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on October 28, 1957, in New York City, NY, to Reece and Fanny (Brown) McEwen, Rena was a graduate of Brandeis High School. She dedicated many years of her life to public service, first as a mail handler with the United States Post Office in New York City. After moving to Michigan in 2004-having fallen in love with the state during a 2002 visit-she found a new calling in caring for others, working as a dietary aide at the Christian Care and McAuley Place nursing homes, where she was given the nickname The Food Fairy, and remained a cherished employee until McAuley's closure.

Rena had a mind that was always willing, even when her body was failing, and she fought her illness with incredible strength and determination. She was sassy, funny, and fiercely independent, with a giving spirit and an unmatched knack for finding a good sale-especially at the Grand Haven Walmart-often announcing with pride, "I paid a two dollars for this!" She loved cooking and delighted her family with meals during her favorite season, Christmas. Her interests were wide-ranging: music of all genres, visiting museums, appreciating art, and settling in to watch black-and-white classics, suspense films, and old westerns.

She was one of many siblings and is survived by her sisters, Rachel Gilchrist, Ramona McEwen, Ronda McEwen, Florence Burrell and her brother, Reece McEwen Jr. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Reba Raukx, and her brother Waymond McEwen.

Rena is also survived by her devoted Loyal Friend, Lori Lebron; her children, Gary Hill Jr., Sharvay Hill, Shandel Hill, Donte Hill, and Deyonte Hill; and her grandchildren, Ava Wilson, Kylie Hill, Layana Hill, Nia Hill, and Zuri Hill; several nieces and nephews. She is remembered as well by her beloved grand-dog, Cody Hill. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Naomi Redmond.

Her cherished animal companions-dogs Petey, Quincy, and Athena; turtle Freshy; and rabbit Boomer-brought her immense joy and will be fondly remembered as part of her life story.

In accordance with her wishes, a private viewing and graveside service will be held at St. Mary's Cemetery officiated by Pastor Sharana Williams.

Her family will forever miss her independent spirit, sharp wit, and the way she went above and beyond for everyone she loved.