Mr. James Kenneth "J.K." Hill, 71, of 390 Sunset Drive, Hartwell, died Wednesday, January 19, 2011 at Athens Regional Medical Center.

Born on July 28, 1939 in Hartwell GA, he was the son of the late James Marvin Hill and Maggie Elizabeth Smith Hill.He was a retired nuclear welder for Duke Energy, served in the United States Marine Corp., and was a member of the VFW and Ducks Unlimited.

He is survived by one daughter: Lisa Ricks and her husband, Mark of Hartwell; two brothers: Gene Hill of Hartwell, and Carey Hill of Royston; one sister: Libby Johnson of Canon; two grandchildren: Morgan Ricks, and Megan Morris and her husband, Justin; and one great-grandchild: Easton Ricks also survives.Mr. Hill was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter: Lori Hill Temple; one son: Jared Hill; and one sister: Mary Fowler.

Graveside memorial services will be Sunday, January 23, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at Nancy Hart Memorial Park. Burial will be in the Nancy Hart Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends at the home of Lisa and Mark Ricks located at 426 Sunset Drive, Hartwell, GA 30643.Memorials can be made to TJ & Friends Foundation, 1675 Deep Creek Road, Dewy Rose, GA 30634.

The Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is in charge of all arrangements.On-line condolences can be sent to the family at www.stricklandfh.com.