LaVerne Hill, a former vice-president and owner of Scioto Downs and the wife of the late Charlie Hill, who was founder and chairman of the board of the Columbus racetrack, passed away Wednesday morning (October 16).
Both Charlie (1985) and LaVerne (2001) won Harness Tracks of America’s prestigious Messenger Award, the first husband and wife so honoured.
LaVerne was also presented with the Sulky Sweeties Good Guy award, the U.S. Harness Writers’ Presidents Award, HTA’s Good Gal Award and the Social Service Award from the Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association.
In 2001, LaVerne was the honouree for the Delaware (Ohio) County Fair’s Lady Pace. Three years later, she donated the funds needed to finance the construction of the Jugette Barn at Delaware, a memorial to her late husband. The new barn was the largest single gift ever made to the Delaware County Fair. Groundbreaking ceremonies were held on Jugette Day in 2004 and the barn opened a year later.
She was formerly a director of the Little Brown Jug Society and Harness Tracks of America.
LaVerne was active in many charities, including the Buckeye Ranch and Recreation Unlimited.
Arrangements will be posted when available.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of LaVerne Hill.
(USTA)