Mary Dee Hill, 95, of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at her home in River Grand on August 14th, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on July 1, 1931, in Lakeville, Indiana, to Walter & Vivian (Sally) Morris. Mary brought warmth into the world. On May 13,1950, she married the love of her life, Duane Hill. Together, they shared an incredible 72 ½ years of marriage-a beautiful testament to their enduring devotion, partnership, and deep love. Over a 19-year span, they welcomed five children, building a home rooted in laughter, support and unconditional love.

Throughout her 95 years, she was defined by her open heart & unwavering devotion to her family and friends. Mary had a rare gift for making everyone she met feel truly seen, welcomed and loved.

Mary's life was guided by her profound faith. She was a devoted Christian and a long-time member of the United Methodist Church, where she served as the UMW chair. Her heart for service extended deeply into her community through her involvement with the Girl Scouts, the Lioness Club, and as president of the Deer River Chamber of Commerce. For many years, she was also a deeply loved school bus driver. She greeted the students each day with warmth, leaving such a lasting impression that many of them still share fond memories of her today as adults.

Mary embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. She and Duane loved to travel and spent years exploring the country together in their fifth wheel. They treasured their winters in Texas and Arizona, journeyed to Alaska, and headed wherever else the road decided to take them.

In her quieter moments, she found happiness in her garden, loved watching and listening to birds, and was an avid bowler. She loved cooking for her family and was a talented crafter, beautifully using the seashells she collected during their winters in Texas. Mary was also a passionate sports fan who rarely missed a chance to cheer on her Minnesota Twins & Vikings.  However, her greatest joy in life was the time she spent with her grandchildren, who brought endless laughter, love, and light into her days.

She is survived by her children, Susan (George) Minerich, James (Catherine) Hill, Tammy (Randy) Blankenship, Julie (Kurt) Werner; daughter-in-law Kathy Carroll; sisters Audie Mason & Rose Anderson; her special cousin Reva Husby; and many loving nieces and nephews. Mary's legacy of love also blossoms through her beautiful generation of grandchildren, including 17 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Duane Hill; her son, Donald Hill; her parents; her brothers and sisters, Pete, Esther, Margie, Donna, Helen & Harvey and their spouses.

Mary's family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to her River Grand Family whom she adored.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Mary's beautifully lived life at the United Methodist Church Grand Rapids, MN on Wednesday August 19, 2026.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, service at 11:00 am with a luncheon to follow, concluding with a graveside service at Pine Ridge Cemetery in Deer River. Please feel free to dress comfortably and wear colors if you wish. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's memory to the United Methodist Church Endowment Fund.