Ellis Reno Hill III

Ellis Reno Hill III was born on April 21, 1953, to the late Ellis R. Hill Jr. and Kathryn Joan (Goldsborough) Hill. Affectionately known as Butch, he was a proud native of Chester, Pennsylvania, where he spent his early years before later settling in Sharon Hill, PA. Ellis was educated in the Chester Upland School District. While attending grade school, he and his two younger brothers, Kemp and Jerome, began emulating their parents passion— the love of music. In 1963, the brothers formed a group called The Twilights (later renamed as The Delights), which included childhood friends Raymond Hudnell, Brandy (Peaches) Wells and Junior Walker. The Delights performed in such famous places such as Philadelphia’s Uptown Theater, American Bandstand, the Hy Lit Show, the Jerry (Geater with the Heater) Blavat Show, and in 1964–a Christmas special which aired on CBS. As The Delights gained notoriety, they recorded 3 single 45s for their top hits, ‘Its Been So Long’, ‘She’s Gonna Put Me Down’, ‘Shipwreck’, ‘For The First Time’, and ‘Listen To Me Girl’. As the years progressed, Ellis’ passion for music never wavered. He teamed up with two of his former Delights group mates—Kemp (Toppy)Hill and Raymond Hudnell, then added his good friend L.D. to form the group TR. TR successfully recorded the album entitled ‘Back On Top’ in 1999. Forever evolving, Ellis proudly obtained his GED and earned his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This feat secured him a position as a professional driver for Stroemann’s, a position he held with pride and dedication. In a pivotal moment, Ellis heeded the call back to God. In gratitude of the gift of song he was given, he dedicated his music to God. To achieve his next goal, he again teamed up with his beloved brother & group mate, Kemp (Toppy) Hill to produce his first gospel album, ‘In My Father’s House’ in 2003. Kemp (Toppy) Hill and yet another former Delights group mate—Brandy (Peaches) Wells, Matt Covington (Philly Devotions) and Patricia Johnson also contributed to the album. By then, Ellis was still owning the road as he loved driving. Making great use of his CDL license, but no longer the only passenger. He went on to work for companies such as Septa, Community Transit and Country Wide Transportation. Ellis incorporated his love of people with whom he had the pleasure of conversation. Anyone and everyone would likely affirm they definitely laughed heartily as he was a jovial spirit. Beyond the road, Ellis followed a calling that had always been in his heart. A great cook, with hands guided by love and a spirit steeped in tradition, he fully embraced yet another passion-his love of baking. Ellis would go on to create the small business Butch Hill’s Pies & Cakes which he proudly sold from Sam & Sam in Chester, PA. Whether it was his infamous sweet potato pie, a warm cake, or banana pudding made—just right, his creations carried the unmistakable touch of someone who poured his heart into every batch. To know Ellis was to know the comfort of his food and the joy of his hospitality. Ellis was more than his work—he was a man of great character, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family and community. He will greatly be remembered for his warm smile, hearty laugh, gentle presence, and the wisdom he generously shared. His life was a testament to hard work, creativity, and most importantly, love. Ellis leaves behind a legacy of kindness and dedication that will live on through his beloved family, cherished friends, and all who had the privilege to know him. Though he has departed this earthly life, the memory of Ellis R. Hill III will forever rise in our hearts—like the poundcake he so lovingly baked—nourishing our souls and reminding us of the warmth he brought into the world. Ellis is preceded is death by his father Ellis R. Hill Jr, grandson Nabree Anthony Tilghman, brothers Jerome “Peanut” Hill, Ronald J. Hill & sister Carol Ann Hill. Ellis leaves behind to cherish his memory, his mother Kathryn J. Hill, his children Nakia T. Hart, Shannon N. Brown, Darchell Panell-Wade, and his baby boy Darrell M. Hill. Grandchildren, Nayah Rachae Tilghman, Nahzerr Cooper, Anthony Reynolds, Zhyia Wade-Stevenson & Jaila Wade-Everett. A great grandson, Nalo Aubree Myrick. Siblings, brother Kemp “Toppy” Hill, sisters Diana L. Hill Reeves (John) and Joan Clayton (Dwight). Nephews, Lawrence B. Hill, Lamar N. Hill (Anna), Kemp B. Hill & Anthony W. Hill. A niece, Kathryn D. Harris (Alisa) & a great niece Journey N. Harris. “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

Ellis Reno Hill III

April 21, 1953 - April 11, 2025