We all have friends, but have you ever asked yourself what exactly is a friend? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a friend is defined as someone who you like and enjoy being with; a person who helps or supports someone or something. A friend is someone who is attached to another by affection or esteem, one that is not hostile, and one who is a favored companion.
On November 7, 1975, one of the greatest friends a person could have was born into the world. Lt. Arlie Hill III, better known as “Pooh,” was born in Somerset, Kentucky, to Arlie Hill, Jr. and Ruth (Foster) Hill. On March 11, 2000, he was united in marriage to Sharen (Hamlin) Hill. Together they had two children, Arlie “Kyle” Hill and Taylor Grace Hill.
Pooh was a unique person who never met a stranger, but was always making a friend. He could turn anyone’s day around with a simple joke or remark. Those who knew him instantly loved him. Pooh made a career as a CNA for the Southfork Medical Clinic and volunteered for the Whitley City Fire Department for over 12 years. He enjoyed helping his community and was well known for being involved in helping those around him.
During his time with the fire department, Pooh was involved in several activities and received numerous training certificates as a first responder through both the fire department and EMS. Pooh was the guy in the crowd that just made life better. Many can recall the stress and pressure of training, and Pooh would immediately find the light of the situation, turning any bad time into a more relaxed one. He had pride about making others laugh by poking fun or teasing.
The people of McCreary County quickly learned Pooh’s sense of humor when he began working in the medical field through SouthFork, as well as McCreary EMS, when he was training to become an EMT. Patients recall their visits into the triage office where Pooh was the friendly face that made the experience one that everyone remembered. He thought if he wasn’t giving you a hard time and making you smile, he wasn’t doing his job.
Although he was a fantastic person within his community, Pooh’s pride and joy was within his home. He loved nothing more than spending time with his family and his children. Pooh was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding his motorcycle with his kids. Pooh was a laid back person, never sweating the small stuff, but enjoying everything life had to offer. He was a simple man and content being who he was, a friend that we all miss and love dearly.
You will never be forgotten Brother.
-Pine Knot F.D.
– Stephen KingPooh was Pooh no matter where you saw him, no matter what time of day, and no matter who he was with at the time. He and my dad are together in heaven keeping everyone entertained and laughing. I’m sure they did the same at the firehouse during their weekly meetings. Our county suffered a tremendous loss when Pooh passed, but heaven gained an angel.
– Vicki WilsonYou will be missed! RIP
– Tom D BenjaminWe’ve met you through your family. They are a testament of the man you were. Thank you for your service and the gift of knowing you through your family, friends and comrades. You’re are loved and will never be forgotten.
– Jeff & Dottie PohlmanYou couldn’t be in the same room with Pooh without smiling, for no particular reason. Pooh filtered life through his heart instead of his eyes. I’ve known him most of my life, meeting him in Mrs. Becker’s 5th grade class. He didn’t change much over the years. The same humor and charisma kept him ‘Pooh’ through adulthood. We worked together as adults and I never heard him complain. He
– Christy (King) Privettalways spoke of his wife and
children with high regard. He was kind and decent…a true man. I’m honored to have known him and know he rests in true peace.
I think I speak for everyone when I say your presence is still felt everywhere. I step into the firehouse and can still hear you making jokes. I walk into the doctor’s office and can still hear you making a young patient laugh while getting their shots. You were so well known and you’re still so special to everyone. Gone but not forgotten.
– Rachel BakerPooh was one hell of a man. One man I can say I was glad to meet. He was the kindest person I’ve ever seen in my life. I will miss POOH. May you fly high because you really did earn your wings R.I.P. POOH you will be missed
– Fayrene GoodinThe fire department hasn’t been the same since you left. Miss you so, friend!❤️
– Allie Jones