Leonard Hill Jr.

Leonard Hill, Jr. passed from earth to Paradise on October 28, 2024, at his home. Though his death was unexpected, he was fully prepared to meet His Heavenly Father. He was born on August 20, 1960, to parents, Leonard Hill, Sr. and Bessie (Goins) Hill. Growing up in Blue Rock, Ohio, he developed a love for country living and hobbies like woodworking, fishing, and fixing up his Chevy Nova. He graduated from Philo High School in 1978, and a few years later on September 12, 1981, he married his childhood sweetheart, Susan. He began his career at Tom's Print Shop and Spencer-Walker Press, where his passion for printing and graphic arts first took root. He then moved on to work at Armco Steel for 15 years in various roles. In 1993, he took a leap of faith in starting his own photography and printing business, Leonard Hill Photography, in the basement of his home. In 1999, he was able to construct his own photography studio behind his home, which he fastidiously cared for. Over the next 31 years, alongside his wife/business partner, he captured the smiles and happy memories of thousands of children, families, students, and athletes in his community. Leonard loved to devote hours to studying and improving his craft, finding new ways to innovate and incorporate new technology. He had a knack and eye for precision and attention to detail. Leonard won several awards for his portraits and his work was even published in a book on Black and White Digital Photography. Leonard was well-known for his industrious and consistent work ethic, and genuinely loved to work and be productive. Above all, Leonard's most important work was his ministry. As a young man, he repented and devoted his life to living for the Lord. For several years, he served in the role of Sunday School Teacher for the Young Adult Class and led midweek bible studies. In 2008, he was ordained as the pastor of the Church of God at 718 Baker Street in Zanesville, Ohio, where he served for over 15 years. Leonard devoted every Saturday to preparing for his message and preached most Sundays and Wednesday services. He took the ministry very seriously. He was a dedicated and caring man of God who fellow saints regarded lovingly as "Brother Lenny". He frequently referred to himself as an "ordinary man serving a great God" and preached only "salvation through Jesus Christ." He was always reminding his congregation that "you must be saved here, in order to be saved there (Heaven)."

 Leonard was married to his wife, Susan (Wilkinson) Hill for 43 years this past September. He was a caring and devoted father to two daughters, Lindsey (Stephen) Croston and Abby (Brandon) Day, otherwise known as his "Pumpkin" and "Tiger Girl". When he wasn't working, Leonard loved to be on his Kubota tractor, leveling and grading the land on his property, or tinkering in his building which he had customized and organized just to his liking. He was happy to enjoy his downtime with family, snacking and watching Bigfoot or Alaska shows on TV. He looked forward each year to family vacations in Orlando at Disney but recently realized a lifelong dream by visiting the Grand Canyon in June 2024. While he had a serious side, he also had an infectious laugh and loved to joke. He was a loyal and reliable husband, father, son, brother, and friend. In addition to his immediate family, he is survived by his father, Leonard Hill Sr., three sisters, Janice (Richard) Hubbard, Lynnetta (Ronnie) Scipio, and Lori Tanner, one brother, Brian Hill, many nieces and nephews, countless beloved family and friends, and a grandkitty Chloe who he loved to cuddle with and dote on. He was preceded in death by his mother, Bessie Hill. Leonard had a deep lasting impact on the lives of those around him and his influence will not soon be forgotten. His presence will be deeply, deeply missed.

Friends and family may call Friday, November 1, 2024, from 7:00-9:00 P.M. at the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE and one hour prior to service Saturday, November 2, 2024, which will be held at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Renee Jenkins and Brother Nathan Hill officiating.

To send a note of condolence, order flowers or comfort food: visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com , follow us on facebook, or call our professional staff at 740-452-4551.