Have you ever met someone who always remembers to do the little things that make people feel seen, valued and cared for; someone whose smile and heart are always open? You have if you’ve met John Hill.

Hill is a dietary cook in the Assisted Living kitchen at Oak Hammock at the University of Florida. But for him, cooking is more than just food, it’s about care, connection and compassion.

As he prepares meals for the residents, Hill strictly follows dietary guidelines and personal preferences, always considering food allergies, textures and consistency to ensure the meals are both safe and enjoyable. He and his fellow team members work hard to maintain a clean, sanitary environment where meals are thoughtfully prepared and served with pride.

But it’s Hill’s attitude — not just his work — that makes him stand out.

He goes out of his way to greet everyone cheerfully; often offering personal compliments or small gifts and treats he knows will brighten someone’s day. If a resident loves a certain dish, John makes sure they get it. People remember John not just for what he does, but how he makes them feel.

As the poet Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

This quote perfectly captures how Hill shows up every day, with kindness, attentiveness and care that go far beyond his job description.

Chris Rocks, Associate Director of Culinary Services at Oak Hammock, sees that care in action daily. He said, “John always does his job with a smile. He takes great pride in making sure the residents get exactly what they ask for. For John, saying ‘no’ is never an option. His attitude is a prime example of our WeCare values.”

Whether it’s through a warm meal, a kind word or a familiar smile, Hill brings joy and dignity to those around him. He embodies the true meaning of service — not just through what he does, but in how he makes others feel.

From Accounting to Hospitality

Born in Gastonia, North Carolina, and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Hill eventually moved with his parents to Spartanburg, South Carolina, where he chose to stay for college. He earned his associate’s degree in accounting from the University of South Carolina, where he also excelled as a scratch golfer on the college’s golf team. Today, he jokes that he’s “a 10 or less,” which is still an impressive feat for any golfer!

Hill moved to Gainesville to become a golf pro and even won the Gator Open in 2002. He attended economic classes at the University of Florida. He then worked as a claims adjuster at Nationwide Insurance from 1985 to 1992, where he was promoted five times. After leaving the corporate world, he pursued his passion for food and opened Bagels Unlimited, a beloved Gainesville restaurant he ran for over 28 years.

Following a long and successful run, Hill had to sell the restaurant after a serious battle with COVID-19 that left him hospitalized for a month. Once he recovered, he joined UF Health in food operations for six months before finding his home at Oak Hammock in March 2022.

Family & Personal Life

Hill has a son and daughter, as well as two grandsons and two granddaughters. He shares a long-term relationship with Andrea Bass, a Certified Nursing Assistant in Assisted Living at Oak Hammock. Together, they have three children and five grandchildren.

When not working, Hill and Andrea enjoy gardening, with three butterfly gardens, a cactus garden and a well-stocked bird feeder to attract local wildlife. They also enjoy visiting flea markets and discovering new “treasures” together.

Recently, Hill reflected on his role at Oak Hammock:

How do you make a difference for the residents?

I love interacting with the residents. I find that just listening and helping to move a conversation along gives them space to share and connect. And of course, getting compliments on the flavor and presentation of the meals means a lot to me!

I enjoy doing small, thoughtful things such as bringing special soap for one resident, making deviled eggs for another, or baking a chocolate cake for someone who enjoys it. One resident needed a lamp, so I bought one and put it in his room. Running my restaurant taught me to multitask, so doing these extra things feels natural.

I also pride myself on being dependable, and I’m never late. That’s important, because the residents count on me. I got my strong work ethic from my father. He came from a farming family and taught me the value of hard work and staying calm in any situation, both of which serve me well here.

How do you apply the WeCare values in your work?

The WeCare values of welcoming, exceptional, courteous, attentive, responsive and empathetic serve as a great guide. I strive to give 150% every day.

Even when we’re short on staff or supplies, we improvise and get the job done. The residents rely on us, and excuses aren’t an option.

I also pay close attention to dietary guidelines. These aren’t just rules, they’re essential for the residents’ safety and health. A mistake could lead to serious consequences, even hospitalization.

I try to find something positive to say to each person. When I acknowledge someone sincerely, their whole face lights up. And while we can’t make everyone happy all the time, I believe that listening with empathy and responding calmly to challenges can defuse most situations. I always try to put myself in someone else’s shoes.

What might surprise people to learn about you?

People are often surprised to learn that I owned Bagels Unlimited for over 28 years. It’s fun meeting customers who tell me they ate at the restaurant and hearing them talk about their favorite sandwiches or dishes.

“John is a good cook and makes really good cake! He does nice things for me and makes the effort to prepare what I like even when it isn’t on the menu. I appreciate John and all he does for me.” – Lonnie Thompson, resident

“John is a great chef! One of the best!” – Manny Lucoff, resident