Regina “Gina” Gaye Martin-Hill, age 68, of Cisne, Illinois, passed away Wednesday morning, August 13, 2025, at her home.

      She was born June 18, 1957, in Salem, the daughter of William Toutant and Erma Louise (Beasley) Martin.  She was united in marriage to James Alan Hill on September 15, 2011.

      Gina was a woman whose life was stitched together with music, art, and love.  From the time she was a young child, she filled every room with music—singing, dancing and playing the piano with a talent that was impossible to ignore.  She lent her talents to countless local groups and bands.  She gave generously of her time, her talents, and her resources—whether it was to schools, fairs, pageants, talent shows, or churches.  When she was involved, she gave her whole heart, and every production had her signature flair.

      She had a special gift for making others feel seen and celebrated, especially young artists finding their voice.  She was a mother figure to many and affectionately known by some as their “pageant grandma.”  To her, family extended far beyond blood.  Jessica Wood, who cared for her in her final days, was her daughter in every way that mattered.

      Our local community wasn’t Broadway or Hollywood, but to her it was, and she definitely earned her star on our “walk of fame.”

      Gina is survived by her husband: Jim Hill of Cisne; 3 daughters: Jaime (Brad) Wagner, Kandi (Narayan) Wallis, and Anna Kirima (Tommy Green); daughter by choice and caregiver: Jessica Wood; grandchildren: Madilyn (Tyler) Lewis, Sidney Sullens, Kennedy Sullens, Nicolas Sullens, Mykhia Bushking, Shayleigh Wallis, and Rylee Wallis; great-grandchildren: Sage Lewis and Vivian Sullens; her beloved fur baby, her cat: Burt Reynolds; a brother: Joe (Sue) Martin; and 2 sisters: Judye Rankin and Sue Schaufelberger.

      She was preceded in passing by her parents; maternal grandparents: William T. and Lula Beasley; paternal grandparents: William and Della Martin; her former husband: Barney Greenwood; a sister: Wylma (George) Lindberg; 2 brothers: William Kenneth Martin and William T. Martin Jr.; and a brother-in-law: Jim Schaufelberger.

      A memorial gathering will be planned later.  Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to the family to assist with final expenses, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com