03/07/2026
It is with deep sadness — and profound gratitude — that we share the passing of Harry D. L. Hill, on February 15, 2026, in his 97th year.
Hill House Hospice is more than a hospice residence; it is a home with deep roots in our community. The house you know so well was originally the Hill family home in the 1950s where Harry, his older sister Shirley and their parents, Gladys Geraldine (Legge) and Percy Clinton Hill, lived. Many remember Harry as a respected local businessman whose father brought the first Canadian Tire to Richmond Hill directly across the street from 36 Wright Street — an enterprise that served generations.
The Hill home was purchased by the Town of Richmond Hill and used for municipal offices. About 10 years later, as the community grew and services expanded, hospice care advocate Ann Gold worked with the Town to reimagine the Hill family home as a hospice. In 1998, the Town graciously allowed the property to be transformed into a place dedicated to compassionate end-of-life care for families in need.
What was once the Hill's home became a place of comfort, dignity and peace for so many and became named Hill House Hospice to honour the Hill family.
Harry remained connected to Hill House. His kindness and generosity were quiet but constant — whether ensuring the staff had a snow blower from Canadian Tire after a heavy snowfall or making his annual Christmas donation without fail. His support was never about recognition; it was about care for his community.
Harry was, as his family so beautifully wrote, “a man of infinite energy, grace and kindness.” The importance of family and connection to the past shaped his daily life. Wise and humble, with a sparkle in his eye, he listened attentively and engaged in meaningful conversation with everyone he met. His generosity to family and to his beloved Richmond Hill community reflected the values instilled in him from a young age — service, faith and responsibility to others.
Predeceased by his loving wife Alvy (Smith), Harry was the cherished father of four daughters, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He was devoted to his family, steadfast in his Anglican faith and deeply committed to the community he called home his entire life.
Harry’s resilience, curiosity and unmistakable laugh — that joyful guffaw as he threw his head back — will be remembered by all who knew him.
Hill House Hospice stands today because of the foundation laid by families like the Hills. We are honoured to carry forward his legacy of compassion and community service within the very walls that once sheltered his childhood.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Hill and Eakins families and give thanks for a life so generously lived.
Obituary: https://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/marshall/obituaries/harry-david-legge-hill/156163.html
www.hillhousehospice.com