I count myself as one of the many people who have been blessed to know Isaiah Hill Jr. With a heavy heart, I know I speak on behalf all of us who were deeply saddened by his passing on August 28. He was 88 years old.We often say that Historic Meridian Park is a special place not because of its homes, but because of its residents. As one of HMP’s most beloved neighbors—whose kindness and community spirit spanned four decades—Isaiah embodied everything one would hope for from a good neighbor, and much, much more. For many, Isaiah will likely be remembered as the man who always smiled and waved at motorists during their morning commutes, and watched over neighborhood kids on their way to school. Others may remember him as the friendly neighbor who always offered a helping hand, who delighted children while playing Santa at neighborhood holiday parties, or who served as a community leader by being a one-man crime watch and reporting problems to the city.
For these reasons and countless others, the neighborhood bestowed its beloved ambassador of goodwill with the title of ‘Mayor of Meridian Park.’ In 2000, the Indiana General Assembly passed a resolution commending his acts of kindness. Isaiah loved the neighborhood, and the neighborhood loved him.
In recent years, despite his declining health and an unfortunate legal battle regarding his home, he managed to keep up his cheerful disposition, which he credited to living a long life. He once told me he could be angry and bitter, but what good would that do? I always admired his up-beat attitude.
Personally, I will remember Isaiah as someone who represented genuine goodness and sincerity, who always saw the good in others and lived by the Golden Rule. He was a remarkable neighbor and friend—he will sorely be missed.
Jess LaNore
Editor, Meridian Park Mirror