Sgt. Dennis P. Hill

Sgt. Dennis P. Hill, aged 75, of Norwood, MA, passed away on the morning of Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the West Roxbury VA Medical Center. Dennis lived a life marked by dedication, service, and community.

Born on August 24, 1950, in Boston, MA, he was the only son and one of two children of the late William Hill and Mary (McElroy) Hill. He grew up in South Boston and attended South Boston High School, Dennis went on to a successful career as an Assistant Operations Manager with the Security Team at John Hancock Insurance located on Berkeley Street in Boston, where he worked for over 30 years. His colleagues remember him as a diligent worker and a supportive mentor.

Dennis’s service to his country was profound. He served in the 173rd Airborne Brigade as a paratrooper in the E1/3/503rd Recon of the Army, he dedicated 27 months to a tour in Vietnam from 1969-1971. His bravery and commitment earned him numerous honors including the National Defense Service Medal, 3 Vietnam Service Medals with Silver Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal, 2 Purple Hearts, 2 Bronze Star Medals, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Parachute Badge, and the Air Medal. Dennis was well respected and admired by his fellow service members and for his courage and leadership.

Deeply rooted in his community, Dennis was a life member of the Norwood branch of the American Legion, the Dedham V.F.W., the Disabled American Veteran organization, and the International Society of the 173rd Airborne Brigade Association, where he was a 31-year secretary for the New England Chapter and served 9 years as the National Membership secretary. As Chapter IX Secretary, Dennis and his fellow paratroopers every year for 25 years on Memorial Day in Dedham, held a 24 hour vigil at the John Barnes Memorial, who was a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient and 173rd Airborne Paratrooper. He cherished the camaraderie and shared mission of these organizations, continually supporting fellow veterans.

Outside of his professional and service commitments, Dennis found joy in the simpler pleasures of life. He loved visiting Cape Cod and trying his luck at the casino. These trips were filled with laughter and adventure, creating cherished memories with family and friends, especially his Monday AM breakfast club with is friends Harry, Charlie, and Chuckie. He also treasured the time spent with his Maltese Benji and his late Bichon Buddy.

He was the devoted and loving husband to Maria (Bergamo) Hill and loving father to her daughter: Effie Orfanides. He is survived by his proud and cherished children: Gina Morrissy and her husband Dan, William Hill, II, and Nicolas Hill. Dennis will be fondly remembered by his grandchildren: Alyssa Hill, Zachary Hill, and William Hill III. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Jack Dempsey, extended family members, and countless fellow servicemen and women.

Dennis is preceded in passing by his sister: Sheila Dempsey.

Family and friends are cordially invited to attend Visitation on SUNDAY, October 19, 2025, from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm in the Kraw-Kornack Funeral Home, 1248 Washington Street, Norwood, MA.

Dennis’s funeral will be held on MONDAY, October 20, 2025, at 9:30 am with a Funeral Service to commence at 10:00 am in the Kraw-Kornack Funeral Home.

Dennis will be laid to rest with his fellow service members in the Veteran Section of Highland Cemetery, 320 Winter Street, Norwood, where US Army Honors will take place in recognition of his faithful and honorable service to the nation he loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dennis’s name may be made to the173d Airborne Brigade Association directly at: https://www.skysoldier.net/donate