October 5, 2026, 86, Goldsboro- Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Lonnie Edward Hill, Jr., 86, passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026 at Kitty Askins Hospice Center surrounded by his family. Born on February 1, 1940 in Durham County, he was son to the late Lonnie Edward Hill, Sr. and Edna Mae Beckwith Hill.
Lonnie was a devoted family man who cherished the time he spent with those he loved most. His family was the center of his life, and he treasured the many memories made together throughout the years. He was a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who valued time together and created countless memories that will be treasured by those who knew and loved him.
Lonnie was also a true sports enthusiast, but few things brought him as much enjoyment as his beloved NC State Wolfpack. He was a proud and loyal Wolfpack fan, following the teams with genuine enthusiasm and never missing an opportunity to watch them compete. Whether it was football, basketball, or another NC State team taking the field or court, Lonnie was always ready to cheer them on. His love for NC State was more than simply watching a game—it was something he enjoyed sharing with the people around him. Games provided opportunities to gather with family and friends, enjoy good conversation, and share in the excitement of cheering for his team.
One of Lonnie’s greatest joys in life was traveling with his beloved wife, Carroll. Together they created memories along the way that they would carry with them for years to come. He loved being behind the wheel and would travel just about anywhere, especially if it meant another adventure. Their travels gave them the opportunity to see new places, experience new things, and enjoy the simple pleasure of having time together. Whether they were traveling across the country, stopping along the way to explore, or simply enjoying the quiet moments of life on the road, Lonnie treasured every opportunity to make memories with his wife. Those journeys became more than vacations—they became stories, experiences, and cherished memories that Carroll and their family will hold close to their hearts. For Lonnie, some of life’s best moments were found in the miles traveled, the places discovered, and the laughter shared along the way with the woman he loved.
Lonnie was a man of tremendous dedication and service. He proudly retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the North Carolina Army National Guard following more than 42 years and 10 months of military service. His commitment to his state and country was evident throughout his distinguished career. Following his military service, he continued serving the people of North Carolina through ten years with North Carolina Emergency Management.
Throughout his years of service, Lonnie received numerous medals, honors, and commendations recognizing his dedication, leadership, and commitment to others. Among his many distinguished honors were the U.S. Army Meritorious Service Medal, the North Carolina Distinguished Service Medal, the North Carolina Order of the Long Leaf Pine, and the North Carolina Cardinal Award. While his accomplishments in uniform and public service were many, Lonnie would likely have considered his greatest accomplishment to be the love he shared with his family.
Lonnie leaves behind a legacy of service, devotion, adventure, and love—a legacy that will continue through his family, the people he served, and the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey.
Lonnie is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Carroll Price Hill; his daughter, Debbie Lane; his son, Ron Hill and wife, Michelle; his grandchildren, Christiana Risban and husband, JJ, and Rev. Drew Hill and wife Jessica; his great grandchildren, Noah Risban and fiancé, Jessie, Conner Risban, Walker Hill and Graham Hill; his sisters, Pat Ford and Joyce Pendergrass and husband, Ronnie; including several special nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Lonnie was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Eddie Lane.
The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Tuesday, October 13, 2026 from 12:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. A graveside service to honor Lonnie’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery with military honors.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lonnie’s honor to, 3HC Home Health and Hospice, The Butterfly Wings Program, 2402 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC 27534 or the Tarheel Minuteman Foundation, 7410 Chapel Hill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607.
The family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the many compassionate caregivers, nurses, and healthcare professionals who lovingly cared for Mr. Lonnie throughout his journey. Special appreciation is extended to the dedicated staffs of 3HC Home Health and Hospice, Kitty Askins Hospice Center, and Bayada Home Health Care, as well as Dr. Craig Carter and Kim Carter, Judy Riddick, Susan Martin, Angie Magliocheti, Janina Silas, and everyone who played a part in providing him with such exceptional care, comfort, dignity, and compassion.
The family is in the care of Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.
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