Sunrise: September 10, 1955 – Sunset: November 13, 2025

It is with deep love and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our mom, Melvina Hill, who departed this life on November 13, 2025. Melvina Hill, born Melvina Watkins on September 10, 1955, in Belzoni, Mississippi, peacefully passed away after a courageous battle with colon cancer. She was the beloved daughter of Steve and Mary Watkins.

Melvina leaves to cherish her memory her seven children: LaShawn Hill, William Hill, Michael Hill, Tina Hill, Erica Hill, Antonio Hill, and Danielle Hill. A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Melvina’s love for her family shaped every part of her life and remained at the center of all she did.

Melvina also leaves behind her seventeen grandchildren: Dontae Hill, Olivia Hammernik-Hill, Justin Hill-Majors, Janae Majors, Jaylan Majors, Aubrianna Clayborne, Brianna Majors, Kiara White, Daiquane White, Ashley White, Azayvier Scott, Vivian Hill, Vanessa Hill, Veronica Hill, Valerie Hill, Harmony Hill, and Camden Hill. In addition, she leaves behind three great-grandchildren: Aiden Hammernik, Kaysin Johnson, and Nasir White.

Melvina was blessed with a large family. She is survived by her sisters Betty Grant, Mary Spooner, Carolyn Young, and Ida McLemore, as well as her brothers Floyd Watkins and Lloyd Watkins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Steve Watkins, and her brother Jerry Watkins.

Melvina lived a life filled with love, resilience, and a personality that could never be forgotten. Known for her feisty spirit, Melvina stood firmly in her beliefs and never hesitated to speak her mind. Her boldness, laughter, and generosity will be remembered by all who knew her. She had a true passion for cooking and often filled her home with meals that offered comfort, connection, and warmth. She loved to shop and took great pride in finding the best deals wherever she went. On any given day, you could find Melvina in a thrift store searching for items to purchase for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Melvina loved her children with a devotion that shaped every part of our lives. She made sure we started each morning with a hot breakfast and ended every evening gathered around a home-cooked meal. Her care was steady, constant, and often unspoken—shown through full plates and warm rooms.

Melvina fiercely protected her children. She never wanted to see any of her children hurt, misled, or taken advantage of, and she stood guard over our hearts even when we didn’t understand her reasons. At times, her firmness made us rebel, but during those difficult moments of discipline, she always reminded us that everything she did was to keep us safe.

Looking back, there were days when we thought she was the “meanest woman on earth,” but now, as adults who understand the depth of her sacrifices, we know she was simply the strongest woman we have ever known.

Mom, we would give anything to have you here with us again. We love you; we miss you, and we will carry your love with us always.

Funeral services for Melvina Hill will be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Krause Funeral Home, 7001 West Brown Deer Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Visitation will take place from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM.