Uncrowned Community Builders

Priscilla Hill was born Priscilla Yvonne Green to Richard and Eloise, in Attalla, Alabama in 1942, in her grandmother's wrought iron bed on February 14th, Valentine's Day. She came to Buffalo during one of the Black Migration of Black people in 1944. She attended School 31 and East High School. Priscilla lived in Willert Park Courts on Jefferson for many years. After a short marriage and two children, Priscilla worked as a Nurse's Aide and a Psychiatric Attendant for ten years. Her daughters, Regina and Charisse, gave her three delightful grandchildren; Gibran, Ashley and Julian. The grandchildren call her LaLa. She is now a great grandmother of three.

At the age of 30, Priscilla continued her education by attending Buffalo State College to pursue a career in Education. After receiving her Bachelor of Science Degree in 1973, she taught 7th and 8th grade Special Education classes. She earned a Master of Science Degree in 1984. Needing a challenge, Priscilla became one of two Resource Teachers at Grover Cleveland High School. In 2000 Priscilla retired from Teaching and became a poet and writer.

She began writing poetry and short stories immediately. She had a published book of poetry called "Back in the Day" In 2009 and 2010 she published two books. The first was "Lord Have Mercy, Give Us Grace and Grandma's Cornbread," and "The Bestest, Specialist Christmas Ever." One of her favorite poems is "Mary Talbert, Mary Talbert, Who Are You?" This is a tribute to Mary B. Talbert an early 20th century civil rights activist. Most of Priscilla's writing is about her life "back in the day", black history and her family. She also enjoys performing the "Spoken Word" in a variety of venues in the city. Her next project will be a book of short stories called, "Whisperers of Secrets."

Priscilla was also involved in numerous other activities. For example, she is a member of New Covenant United Church of Christ and has served diligently over the years as the President of the congregation, Trustee, Deacon, member of the Sunday School, Women's Fellowship and the Faith Book Club. Because of her love of reading Priscilla is a member of the Merriweather and Maumbausa Book Clubs.

Her hobbies included photograph, painting, taking classes at the Locust Street Art Classes, Inc. which provided a way for her to express her creativity. She was also active with El Museo Museum where she conducted art projects associated with Grover Cleveland High School. She was a member of the Mary B. Talbert Civic and Cultural Club and Buffalo Region of Federated Women and recording secretary of both. These clubs contributed to the financial costs of college bound students and provided awards for the most improved eighty grade students.

Priscilla was a member of the William-Emslie YMCA and has volunteered her services in fund raising and attends Aerobics and Swimming classes. She also loved to travel and has traveled to London, Paris, Amsterdam, the Caribbean and has taken many cruises. Her other interests include attending Paul Roberson Theatre.

Seven women called the "Divas" help Priscilla to be well rounded through a sister's relationship. The group participates in monthly dinners and vacations together.

Priscilla Y. Parker, who became Priscilla Y. Hill on August 20, 2005, is still writing.