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Roger C. Hill, PhD, emeritus professor in the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Department of Physics, passed away on Nov. 5, 2025, in Altadena, Calif. He was 84.

Born and raised in Pasadena, Calif., Hill earned a bachelor’s degree in physics in 1963 and a doctorate in physics in 1969 from the California Institute of Technology. His doctoral thesis, “Relativistic Quark Models and the Current Algebra,” contributed to the emerging landscape of particle physics in the late 1960s. Before joining SIUE, he served as a research associate and lecturer at Northwestern University from 1968–70.

Hill joined SIUE faculty on Sept. 16, 1970, as an assistant professor of physics. He advanced through the ranks to associate professor and professor, and for four decades taught courses in classical and modern physics, quantum mechanics, mathematical physics and advanced dynamics. He was beloved by his students.

Hill’s scholarship included work in quark models, current algebra and quantum field theory. He authored a textbook on quantum mechanics, published numerous articles and delivered presentations at conferences and workshops throughout his career. Hill retired on Aug. 31, 2010, and was granted emeritus status in recognition of his distinguished service to the University.

Beyond his academic work, Hill was known for an expansive curiosity that shaped a wide range of interests from astronomy, early computing and 3-D imaging to music, languages and model railroading. He shared these passions generously with colleagues, students and friends, often bringing the same careful attention and enthusiasm to his community pursuits that he brought to the classroom and laboratory.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Southern California Railway Museum at socalrailway.org.

PHOTO: Professor Emeritus Roger Hill