May 15, 1960-May 28, 2026
Rev. David Francis Hills (Elder), beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, pastor, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Santee, California, on May 28, 2026, after a courageous seven-year battle with Frontotemporal Dementia. He was 66 years old.
David was born on May 15, 1960, in Midland, Michigan, to David W. Hills and Margaret H. Hills. He grew up with a deep appreciation for family, faith, learning, and service—values that would guide him throughout his life.
David pursued higher education at Adrian College in Adrian, Michigan, where he was a proud member of the Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity and then Mesa College in Grand Junction, Colorado. David answered a call to ministry and earned his Master of Divinity from the Methodist Theological School in Ohio.
A devoted elder in the Michigan Area Conference of the United Methodist Church, David dedicated more than 30 years to pastoral ministry. Throughout his career, he faithfully served numerous congregations across Michigan as senior pastor, offering spiritual guidance, compassionate leadership, and steadfast support to those entrusted to his care. His commitment to the church extended beyond the local congregation through his service as District Superintendent for five years, helping to guide and strengthen churches throughout the region.
David’s ministry reached far beyond the pulpit. He played an active role in the spiritual growth and development of young people through church youth programs and summer camps, mentoring generations of youth and helping nurture their faith journeys. David also participated in and later led several mission trips to Haiti, helping build churches, schools, and communities.
In addition to his calling in ministry, David demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit. In 1982, he franchised and operated a Domino’s Pizza location in Grand Junction, Colorado, and all of his children teethed on pizza crust.
David embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. Having learned to sail on Lake Michigan, he became an avid sailor, boater, and fisherman. Over the years, he also collected a massive amount of lighthouse sculptures. He was a passionate supporter of the Michigan Wolverines football and the Denver Broncos, cheering faithfully through every season (win or lose). He loved music and singing and enjoyed performing as an actor in several theatrical productions. His favorite musical artist was James Taylor, who David saw perform live several times with his beloved wife Claire. David also enjoyed spending time traveling to Scottish renaissance fairs with Claire. He also cherished the companionship of his beloved dog, Iona.
Of all the roles David held, none brought him greater joy than being “G-Pa.” He treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren and took special pride in baptizing all six of them, a lasting testament to the faith that defined his life.
David is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Claire Becker Hills; his daughters, Kathryn Hills and Debra (Matt) Knutson; his son, David (Katie) Hills; his grandchildren, Rori (Dakota) Wardle, Avery Cook, Zoey Cook, Keegan Knutson, Lilian Hills, and Theodore Hills; and his great-grandson, Oliver Wardle.
He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Hills, Anne (Mark Moss) Hills, Susan Hills, and Janet (Kevin) Landis; his brothers- and sister-in-law, John (Dianne Rodway) Becker, Peter (Melonie) Becker and Aleta Jennett; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends and parishioners, whose lives were touched by his kindness, wisdom, humor, and unwavering faith.
David’s life was marked by service, compassion, and a deep love for God, family, and community. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he influenced through ministry, friendship, mentorship, and love.
A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 11:30 AM (PDT) at 11613 Calle Simpson, El Cajon, CA 92019.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
David will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Service Record: [(FE) D 1992; FE 1994] Big Rapids: Third Avenue, Paris, Rodney 1992; Climax, Scotts 1994; Coloma, Watervliet 8/1/1999; Delton: Faith 2007; District Superintendent, Heartland District 2010; Stevensville 8/1/2015; Mt. Pleasant: First 2022; medical Leave 2023.
Last Updated on June 17, 2026