Friends and family gather to honor Mart Hill's remarkable life.
The Tallahassee community pays tribute to Mart Hill, the oldest graduate of Florida State College for Women, who passed away at 104. Hill’s legacy of service, education, and community engagement remains deeply influential. A memorial service will be held on January 21 to honor her remarkable contributions.
Tallahassee is feeling a profound sense of loss as the community remembers Mart Hill, who passed away on New Year’s Day at the remarkable age of 104. As the oldest living graduate of the iconic Florida State College for Women, now known as Florida State University, Hill leaves behind a legacy that not only touches the hearts of her family but also resonates throughout the entire community.
Brought into this world in Greenwood, South Carolina, Hill spent the majority of her vibrant life in Tallahassee. Those who were fortunate enough to know her often described her as a “force of nature”. Despite reaching the admirable age of 104, she was still described as “healthy and bright”, maintaining her sharpness of mind and spirit until the end. In fact, just less than two weeks before her passing, she showcased her competitive edge by playing a game of bridge—something she loved dearly.
Mart Hill was not only a dedicated family woman, viewed as a “wonderful mother and grandmother” by her loved ones, but also a stalwart community member. Throughout her life, Hill showed immense dedication to helping others and giving back to the city she adored. During World War II, she took on an active role at FSCW, serving as chair of the Student War Defense Committee and contributing to the national effort in various notable ways, like organizing events for pilots in training and even planting victory gardens.
Graduating in 1942 with a bachelor’s degree in English and Theatre, Hill didn’t just excel academically; she was also a popular figure on campus. She took on significant roles such as the student body president and had the honor of being voted the “loveliest senior” by her classmates—a title that indicates her charm and vibrant spirit.
A passionate football fan, Hill frequently attended FSU games alongside her late husband, Louis Hill, a proud U.S. Army veteran who passed away in 2003, after nearly 60 years of marriage. Together, they enjoyed an extensive family life that has deep roots in the local community. Mart Hill is survived by her children, Almena Pettit and Lou Hill, alongside a loving family comprising six grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
Mart Hill’s involvement in various community organizations was nothing short of inspiring. She was a long-time member of Trinity United Methodist Church, contributing her time to multiple committees, and was even married there in 1944. Additionally, she actively participated in the Junior League of Tallahassee, the State of Florida Arts Council, and FSU’s Opening Nights, showcasing her commitment to enriching the community experience.
Her contributions extended beyond mere participation; she played a pivotal role in founding the FSU College of Arts and Sciences Leadership Council and was instrumental in the inception of Springtime Tallahassee, an annual festival still celebrated today. Mart Hill was notably recognized with an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from FSU in 1999, an acknowledgment of her unwavering service and generosity.
The Tallahassee community is invited to honor Mart Hill at a memorial service set to take place at Trinity United Methodist Church on January 21 at 11 a.m.. There, friends and family will gather to celebrate a remarkable life that was ardent, influential, and immersed in love for others.
As we remember Mart Hill, undoubtedly a woman of outstanding significance, we can take comfort in knowing her legacy of love, community service, and dedication will continue to uplift and inspire future generations in Tallahassee.
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