Brunswick legislator and businessman known as 'a champion for the little guy' has died

Longtime North Carolina legislator and businessman Dewey Hill died Tuesday, June 27 at age 97.

Born in 1925, the Columbus County native sought to make a difference in his community. He began by making his mark in business. According to his obituary, he became active with his father’s grocery store business while he was still young. He and his wife, Opal, who preceded him in death, later took over the business, turning it into a chain with 35 stores, which they later sold.

Years later, Hill returned to the grocery store business opening a smaller chain — Hills Supermarket — with five stores, including stores in Whiteville, Lake Waccamaw, Shallotte, and Loris, S.C.

While Hill is known for his successful supermarket businesses, he is perhaps better known for his political service. A Democrat, Hill served 10 consecutive terms in the North Carolina House of Representatives, holding his position from 1993 until 2013.

Former Gov. Mike Easley remembered Hill as a “strong voice for our district and for all of rural North Carolina.”

“He was a man of integrity who understood business and jobs,” Easley said.

Easley noted Hill advocated for “higher pay for hard-working families affected by foreign trade.”

“He was always a champion for the little guy,” Easley said.

Robert Howard, former mayor of Southport and owner of Premiere Real Estate in Whiteville, had been Hill's business partner since 1992. Howard said Hill was "a man of honor and integrity."

"Dewey was a private man, who went about his daily life helping people and his community in every way, all without the desire for recognition," Howard said.

Howard added Hill was also insightful and "had a keen intellect," and he often used his knowledge to help others.

"He was a remarkable mentor to those seeking direction as to how to succeed in a business career," Howard said. "Dewey touched many lives in a positive way. His impact on the retail grocery business has been invaluable."

Howard added that not everyone understood Hill, but those closest to him knew he was always looking out for others.

"Dewey was a special friend, one of those whose word was his bond," Howard said. "I will miss him in our business and especially as a friend.

Hill’s funeral service will be held at Whiteville First Baptist Church, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 1. According to Hill’s obituary, the Hill’s Foods Stores will remain open serving customers during that time, but the stores are planning a moment of silence Saturday at 11 a.m.

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This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Brunswick legislator remembered as a 'strong voice' for rural N.C.