DEERFIELD, IL — Thomas "Tom" Allen Hill, affectionately known to many as "Sarge," passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, at the age of 83, after a courageous health journey.
Born on May 3, 1943, in Waukegan, Illinois, Tom lived a life defined by service, hard work, and devotion to others. He proudly served in the United States Army before earning his degree in criminal justice from Carthage College and beginning a distinguished 25-year career with the Village of Deerfield Police Department where he retired as a sergeant. He earned his Master's degree from Webster College.
Tom's commitment to service continued in retirement through his work with the Criminal Justice Institute at Hillsborough Community College in Tampa, Florida, and later in Loudon, Tennessee, where he served his community through a local funeral home and community college.
More than any title, Tom will be remembered for the way he loved. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who showed up fully for the people he loved—whether coaching softball, attending concerts, games, and school events, or offering quiet encouragement. His steady presence was a gift to all who knew him.
Tom found joy in life's simple pleasures: baseball, the Masters, grilling the perfect steak, music, family, and the animals who shared his life. His beloved golden retrievers, Tucker and Zac, and cherished cats, Sherlock, Widget, and Watson, crossed the Rainbow Bridge before him. His faithful golden retriever, Max, remains at home, still looking for his Papa.
Tom is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Katherine "Katie" Hill; his daughters, Tina (Brian) Haselius and Marcie (John) Bissell; and his cherished grandchildren, Sarina, Hillary, Adam, Tyler, Noah, and Jonah.
Tom spent his life helping others find their way—through his service, his example, and sometimes with one of his carefully hand-drawn maps. His kindness, integrity, and steadfast love will continue to guide those who knew him, and his memory will be treasured always.
— Reader submission
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