Clarence Eugene Hill's Obituary
Clarence Eugene Hill Sr., lovingly known as “Daddy,” “Grandpa,” and “Coach Hill,” passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, at the age of 82. He was born on October 28, 1943, in Edna, Oklahoma, to Eugene and Roberta Hill. At the age of five, Clarence moved with his family to San Diego, California, where he would grow up, build his life, and leave a lasting legacy.
Clarence was the second of fourteen children and the first son in a lively household of nine girls and five boys. Growing up in a large family helped shape his strength, independence, and no-nonsense approach to life. He attended high school in San Diego and began working at a young age, developing the strong work ethic that would define him for the rest of his life.
Throughout his career, Clarence worked for several companies, including General Dynamics, Rohr, Vons grocers and head of security at Watermark, where he dedicated many years of service before retiring. It was at Vons that he met his life partner of 43 years, Pennine Tallabas. Together they built a life rooted in love, loyalty, and partnership. After retirement, they relocated to Rogers, Arkansas, where Clarence enjoyed his later years surrounded by family.
Clarence was a proud and devoted father to six children, 5 of whom were from his first marriage to Evelyn Hill: LaFraye Hill of San Diego, CA; Marlene Swanson (Robert) of San Diego, CA; Clarence Hill Jr. (Corrine) of San Diego, CA; Stephaney Hill of Tulsa, OK; Anthoney Hill (Kesha) of Ft. Collins, CO; and Marcus Hill (Harmony) of Rogers, AR. He poured into his children the values he lived by—hard work, discipline, education, and integrity. He believed in finishing what you start, being a good citizen, and earning everything you get.
He was further blessed with nine great-grandchildren. In his retirement years, Clarence took special joy in helping raise his grandchildren Dajanae and Isaiah in Rogers, AR. Being present in their daily lives brought him immense pride and happiness.
Clarence had a lifelong love of sports—ALL things sports. If there was a game on, he was watching it. ESPN and SportsCenter were staples in his home. Known affectionately as “Coach Hill,” he spent many years coaching youth football and other sports in San Diego, including coaching his own children. He believed that sports built discipline, character, and teamwork—lessons he carried into every part of his life.
He also enjoyed going to the horse and dog races, trips to Tijuana, and staying active at the local health center in Rogers. Clarence believed in taking care of himself, eating well, and staying disciplined. In his later years, he faithfully served at his church and valued the fellowship of his church community.
Clarence was known for his quick wit and unforgettable sense of humor. He was funny naturally, effortlessly funny. He had a “keep it simple” philosophy and a gift for breaking down complicated problems into clear, practical solutions. He was not about drama or nonsense; he believed in keeping it real and telling the truth with love. His wisdom was simple but powerful. When others felt overwhelmed, he could offer straightforward advice that made everything seem manageable.
He was a strong provider, a steady presence, and a loving father and grandfather. His children carry forward his work ethic, his discipline, and his determination. His family will remember his laughter, his lessons, his coaching from the sidelines of life, and his unwavering support.
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to all who have offered prayers, food, flowers, cards, support, and assistance during this time. Your kindness and love mean more than words can express.
Clarence Eugene Hill Sr. lived with strength, humor, discipline, and heart. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
He was also a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren: Jayvon Stewart, Darian Hill, Demariay Henry, Bakir Madyun, Kiara Kinsler (Dontrell), Deja Hill, Jaden Swanson, Dajanae Hill, Trenton Hill, Isaiah Hill, and Desiray Joy Swanson, who preceded him in death.
He is survived by his beloved partner Pennine Tallabas and by his siblings: Othella Jordan, Don Hill (Flo), James Hill (Dora), Mary August, Cherri Hill, Devon Williams (James), and Pauly Hill. He was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings.
A celebration of Clarence’s life will be held on Saturday, February 28, at 2:00 p.m. at First Christian Church, 905 S 13th street in Rogers.
Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance, reflection, and gratitude for a life well lived.
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