SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY- With great sadness we announce that Richard "Rich" Alan Hill Jr., age 53, of Saratoga Springs, NY, passed away unexpectedly following a medical emergency on Friday October 31, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, and son.

He was born November 1, 1971, in Muskegon, Michigan to Richard "Butch" Hill Sr. and Louella Hill. He was raised in Muskegon and enlisted in the United States Navy at age 18. While stationed in Ballston Spa, he met his future wife, Erin Elizabeth Smith. They married in 1992 and enjoyed 33 wonderful years together until his death. After an honorable discharge, the two settled in Buffalo, NY, where their two children were born, before moving to Saratoga Springs.

Rich earned a bachelor's degree in physical therapy, and later his master's degree in science education, both from the University at Buffalo. He worked for over 20 years for the East Greenbush Central School District, first as a science teacher at Goff Middle School, and then as a physics teacher at Columbia High School. He was a genuinely beloved teacher and colleague who had an immense positive impact on the school community.

A lifelong Christian, Rich was a member of Grace Fellowship Church in Saratoga.  He served there as a greeter, welcoming all who walked through the doors on Sunday morning, as well as participating as a leader for the God of the Word Bible study.

He is survived by his wife Erin and two children, Noah and Brynna, all residents of Saratoga Springs. He also leaves behind his mother, Louella Hill, of Montague, MI, brother David (Sarah) Hill of Whitehall, MI, sister Annette (Kevin) Norwood of St. Augustine, FL, and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father and a brother, Jesse Hill.

Relatives and friends may call from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, Sunday, November 9, 2025 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 (518-584-5373). A funeral service will take place at 11:00am on Monday, November 10 at Grace Fellowship Saratoga, 165 High Rock Ave, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.  All are welcome to attend.

Rich's family would like to thank the Columbia High School community and Grace Fellowship Church family for their outpouring of support.

Memorial donations may be made in Richard's name to the Alzheimer's Association ( www.alz.org ).