Mother Emily Rufus

Mother Emily Theodora Rufus Hill was called home to receive her crown on Tuesday, October 30, 2018. The only child born to Charlie and Erma Lee Rufus on May 6, 1929 in Elizabeth, Louisiana. The family moved to Houston, Texas when she was five years old. She attended Douglas Elementary. She attended Jack Yates High School where she excelled in her studies. She was a majorette, and loved to reminisce about marching in parades. Her family were founding members of Jordan Grove Missionary Baptist Church. She accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized in a gown that was made by her beloved father. For twenty-five years she was a faithful member of Sunrise Baptist Church. In 1989 Mother Hill joined the Bethany Baptist Church family under Shepherd Dr. Steve W. Hall. For many years Mother sang in the choir and was an outstanding member of the Senior BBC Warriors. Her proudest position was that of being called Mother Hill on Bethany’s Mother Board. She was the mother of five children. She was the widow of Haywood Hill. In 1968, Mother accomplished her most passionate goal and dream as a single mother. With the help of her mother, she moved her children into a brand new home. She worked at River Oaks Cleaners & Laundry for many, many years until retirement. She enjoyed her retirement by cooking large meals for the family & having us all over. She was a woman with an open hand & an open heart. She was a blessing to many. The wealth of her spirit could not be counted. Her value is beyond appraisal to her family. A rare and precious jewel that was treasured by all. A woman that loved the Lord our God with her whole heart. She made sure that everyone she met heard about how good He is. She never met a stranger. She was loved by many and will be missed by all. She couldn’t wait to get to Heaven! She looked forward to it. That angel got her wings! Children Haywood Hill (Mary Ann), Cheryl Autry, Deborah Ford, Joe Hill (Geneva), and Erma Brown. Grandchildren Michael Ford, Kimberly Jones, Donald Eric Ford (deceased), Emily Hayes, Joe Anthony Hill, Andre’ Ford, Ajani Artist (deceased), Kimani Artist, Anthony Deshun Hill, LaTongela Shanta’ Melton, Shagdrick Hill (Zeenethia), and Deidrick Hill (Danielle). Always loving and compassionate Goddaughter Jackie Hunter, Goddaughter Sharon Prater Jones, and God Sister Barbara Turner. Great-Grandchildren Shukia Ford, Ashley Davis, Eunique Washington, Trevor Washington, Breeonna Jones, Precious Davidson, Ja’Von, Jakori, Ryheem, LaDaja’, Lailah, Deidrick Jr., Daylen, Z’Naiya, Z’meya, Joe Anthony III, Aquina, Aneitra, Donte, Yihira, Anthony Jr., and Takisha. Great-Great-Grandchildren Jaliyah, Journee, Aiden, Zayne, Zayden, Paris, Jaleel, Carter, and Jayden. Aunt Nora Williams, and numerous other family members and friends.

Mother Emily Rufus

May 6, 1929 - October 30, 2018