Rachael Lorraine Hill, born September 4, 1972, entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior on March 26, 2025, after a long battle with pneumonia. Though her passing brings deep sorrow to those who knew and loved her, we rejoice in the assurance that she is at home in heaven.
Rachael’s life was a testimony of grace and transformation. She loved her Lord and her church family! Less than two years ago, following a cancer diagnosis, she made the most important decision of her life—accepting Christ as her Savior. She saw in the Bible that God sent His only Son to earth to die for our sins and rose again so that we could have eternal life, and that if she trusted Him to save her, that He would. So that’s what she did! And she wanted everyone to know that He died for them, too. From that moment on, she dedicated herself to serving the Lord with a full and joyful heart. As a cherished member of Hope Baptist Church in Hoover, Alabama, Rachael actively participated in various ministries. Whether greeting members with a warm smile as they entered for worship or helping in the children's ministry, she found great joy and a place to belong in serving others there. Even in her final days, she remained faithful, distributing pamphlets with the Gospel message to those in her community. Because of her testimony, others have come to know Christ as their Savior.
Beyond her devotion to her church and faith, Rachael had a deep and abiding love for animals, particularly her beloved dogs and cats. She was known for her gentle and compassionate care, ensuring that each pet she welcomed into her home felt safe and loved. Whether it was rescuing a stray, nursing an ailing pet back to health, or simply delighting in the companionship they offered, Rachael’s heart for animals was boundless. Her dogs, in particular, were like family to her—loyal companions who brought her comfort and joy throughout the years.
Rachael is survived by her mother, Marjorie Dale Smith Hill; brother, Michael Hill; aunt, Judy Hicks (Caryl); uncle, Tracy Smith; several cousins; and Doug Harris, Cornelius Cofield, Cathy Juarez, and other cherished friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Charles and Dolores Smith, whose legacy of love she carried forward.
Though we grieve her passing, we celebrate the promise that she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior, free from pain and suffering.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held April 19, 2025 at 2:00 PM. For additional details, please call or text Karl or Wendy Swelling.
Patterson-Forest Grove Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Hill family during their time of bereavement. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared at
www.pattersonfh.com