Obituary: Simon P. Hill

On August 23, 2019, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

“We’re all pots and kettles.”
– Simon Hill

Simon Peter Hill of 45 Elm Street, Somerville (Ward 5), passed away on Monday, August 19, at the age of 62.

Despite being a British national during his decades-long residency in America, Simon’s lack of American citizenship never stopped him from participating in local politics or believing that Somerville was his home and community for the time that he lived here.

Simon was known to many in Somerville and Union Square by his ubiquitous presence at community meetings, political events, and his prolific emails and salty commentary. He loved to debate and challenge people, delighting in being a contrarian, but also willing to change his opinions when presented with a compelling argument. He took particular interest in calling out hypocritical opinions or actions, wherever and whenever he saw them.

Simon was well known for his banter, comedic hyperbole, and verbosity. He spoke directly into one’s ear, insisting on sharing personal space to be better heard. His colorful personality fostered as many friends as it did enemies – a fact for which Simon was entirely indifferent.

Among friends, he told more about himself, but not much. He previously lived in Florida, New York City, and San Francisco. He identified as a socialist and atheist. He was once a waiter and sommelier. Simon also followed professional tennis, having played tennis in his youth and developed a life-long friendship with a high level tennis player and member of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon.

He loved his roommate’s rabbit and cat as if they were his own: “I’m just glad miss Kitty is happy with a cut of any meat or fish that’s going for dinner and that she hasn’t developed a taste for wine. Apparently female alley cats from Hyde Park are of the tough variety. Try cutting her nails. She has a strict policy: you try and cut ’em and I’m going to f$@#ing bite you.” Simon recently had a good scare when “Kitty” accidentally jumped out of the fourth story window in pursuit of a bird—only suffering a temporary limp in the fall, to Simon’s immense relief.

Simon had an unusual knack for making friends with people unlike himself. He seemed to relish being an outsider, but always had the inside scoop on everyone, typically involving a conspiracy of some sort – some of which would turn out to be true! He was forever a sleuth.

Simon was a member of the Somerville community, and he will be missed by many. He is survived by a brother David Hill, of the United Kingdom, as well as other relatives and friends.

A remembrance toast for Simon will be held at Sally O’Brien’s (335 Somerville Ave) on Sunday, September 8, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. All are welcome. Inquiries may be addressed to: FriendsOfSimonHill@gmail.com.