Corey Lee Hill

Corey Lee Hill, 56, born on March 22, 1969, in Richland, Washington, passed away on July 19, 2025. Known for his warm spirit and vibrant personality, Corey left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He graduated from Benton High School and went on to attend the University of Central Arkansas, where he joined the Sigma Fraternity. Afterward, Corey began a fulfilling career at a bank, a job he dedicated himself to until his health would no longer allow him to continue. Throughout his life, he demonstrated resilience and strength, battling his illness for many years with courage and determination. Despite the challenges he faced, Corey remained funny, loving, and fiercely devoted to his family. Even without regular church attendance, his faith, instilled in him by family, most notably his mother, remained a cornerstone of his life.

Corey was an exceptional athlete with a deep love for sports, especially football. His talent and dedication earned him widespread recognition throughout his high school and college years, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed his skill on the field. In 1987, Corey achieved the title of #1 Arkansas State Decathlon winner, a testament to his all-around athletic ability, which led him to compete at Golden State in Sacramento, California. His accomplishments were honored with his induction into the Wall of Fame at the Benton Athletic Memorial Museum. Beyond playing, Corey cherished the game as a fan, finding great joy in cheering on his beloved Dallas Cowboys, especially when he could do so alongside his son.

Corey's family includes his devoted mother, Willie Lou Reed, and his bonus dad, Kenneth Reed, of Benton; his children: Cierra La'Rae of Benton, and Corey John T. Hill, of Texas, along with his bonus children: Rhonda, Destiny, Corey, and Demetrius; grandchildren: Adrian, Kaylea, and Josiah; his siblings: Amber, Kenneth, Talea, all of Benton, and Dana Matthews, with her husband Leon, of Locust Grove, Georgia. He is also survived by many close family and friends who will profoundly miss his presence. He is preceded in death by his biological father, John T. Patrick.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, Arkansas.

Officiating the service will be Pastor Carl Barnes, with honorary pallbearer honors entrusted to: Kenneth Reed Jr., Curlee Madison, Brian Harvey, Nigel Poland, Aaron Hill, and Jesse Hill.

Following the service, a Repast will be held at Northside Church of Christ, located at 917 North East Street, Benton, Arkansas.

Family, friends, and members of the community are invited to gather and pay their respects as they celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched the hearts of and inspired many.