NORFOLK — Barbara Ballance Hill, 89, of the 1400 block of Harmott Avenue, died peacefully at her home Dec. 7, 2009, with her family by her side. She was a native of Suffolk and a long time resident of the Lakewood community of Norfolk. She was the daughter of the late George Henry Ballance Jr. and Ruth Allen James Ballance. She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years, Rowland Braxton Hill Jr., and son, Harvey Brooks Hill.
Mrs. Hill was a long time active member of the Lakewood Garden Club, serving in many capacities concerning local beautification projects, and in the making and judging of flower arrangements. As a former member of the Lakewood Circle of the Kings Daughters, she devoted thousands of hours knitting and sewing items for the Children’s Hospital. She was a former leader with the Azalea Garden Boys Club, proud to have participated in the dedication of its library and in the judging of youth’s creative arts. She also served the various organizations in support of her five children, including Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts. She was a member of Talbot Park Baptist Church.
Mrs. Hill was an avid doll collector, especially of foreign and antique dolls, and maintained a keen interest in botanical matters. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and friend to all who knew her.
Mrs. Hill is survived by three sons, R. Braxton Hill III and his wife, Elaine; George Ballance “Brick” Hill Sr. and his wife, Louise; Allen Bryan Hill and his wife, Carolyn; daughter, Bruce H. Darden and her husband, Bill; six grandchildren, Brack IV, Austin, Paris, Brick Jr., Mimi and Beck; three great-grandchildren, Isabelle Lane, Braxton and Walker; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Hill is joined by her family in expressing a grateful thank you to those who provided for her comfort and happiness as the need arose, especially to her daughter-in-law, Louise Hill, and caregiver and friend, Nanette Calligan.
A graveside service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 11, 2009 at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk by the Rev. Nathan Gragg. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday evening from 6 to 7 p.m. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments Norfolk Chapel is handling arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hdoliver.com.