Photo Courtesy Of Duke University
Legendary NBA star Grant Hill’s mother, Janet Hill, reportedly died at 74.
Grant took to Twitter to announce the passing of his beloved mom on Aug. 16. In the tweet, he revealed that she had been battling cancer since 2021.
“Over a year ago, my mother was diagnosed with Glioblastoma. Just like she’s done with everything in her life, she confronted this brain cancer with tremendous strength, courage & dignity,” the veteran NBA star wrote. “This loss for our family is devastating. She will forever be missed. #RIP, mom. I [heart] U Mom!!!”
Attached to his post was a heartfelt statement highlighting Janet’s achievements.
“In her public life, Janet was known as a dedicated champion for the organizations she represented, a committed philanthropist and board member, a highly respected professional and mentor to many,” the statement said. “In her private life, Janet was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.”
In a follow-up tweet, Grant thanked Duke University, where Janet served on their Board of Trustees from 2006 to 2021, for their thoughtful tribute to her. The Texas native also famously played for the school’s basketball team, Blue Devils, in the ’90s before being drafted to the NBA.
“Thank you, @DukeU, for this wonderful tribute and gesture for my mother!!” he tweeted.
Duke’s website indicated that his mother was recently announced as a 2022 recipient of Duke’s highest honor–the University Medal for Distinguished Meritorious Service. Due to her passing, the award will be presented posthumously in conjunction with Founders’ Weekend, Sept. 30 to Oct. 1. Additionally, all Duke flags on campus were scheduled to be lowered in Janet’s honor on Aug. 18.
“We remember Janet Hill for her diligence, intelligence and energy directed in service to Duke,” Duke President Vincent Price said. “Janet loved Duke with the boundless passion that she brought to all her commitments, and she always worked to help Duke become better. We are extraordinarily grateful for her life, her exuberance, and her leadership, and we extend our deepest condolences to Calvin, Grant, and the entire Hill family.”
Janet, who grew up in segregated New Orleans, was the wife of former Yale football star and former National Football League running back Calvin Hill–Grant’s father. She lived a fruitful and accomplished life straight into older age as she had reportedly been serving as a principal with Hill Family Advisors in Fairfax, Va. Prior to that, she was the owner and vice president of Alexander & Associates Inc., a consulting firm providing corporate planning, advice, and analyses to executives, managers and directors.
She leaves behind two granddaughters: Lael Rose Hill (15) and Myla Grace Hill (20).