For Alice Hill, a West Virginia resident and widow of Vietnam war hero Eligha Hill, her house on 21st Street is more than just a structure—it’s a symbol of love, family, and the legacy of her late husband.
But after over 40 years, the home has deteriorated to the point where it’s uninhabitable, leaving Alice and her family searching for answers and support to bring it back to life.
Alice evacuated the house due to severe mold, roof and gutter damage, and a failing retaining wall that has caused the home to shift. These issues have robbed the Hill family of the place they once called their sanctuary.
“My best memory was our family room, with the big fireplace,” Alice recalls. “When we bought the basketball game for the children, an electronic basketball game—that’s what brought us all together.”
The home was lovingly built and maintained by Eligha Hill, a Vietnam veteran who suffered lifelong injuries from his combat service. His care for the house and his family was unwavering.
Neighbors fondly remember seeing him outside in his white chair, waving at passersby—a testament to his warm, community-focused spirit.
Eligha passed away in December 2022, his final wish being to return to the home he cherished.
“When my husband passed away, that is what he cried every day—I want to go home,” Alice said. “I did not have the heart to even drive him down here to see how our home was at the time.”
Now, Alice and her daughter, Elisa Waldrum, are asking for help to restore the home to its former glory. Elisa described her parents as selfless, hardworking individuals who often helped others in need.
“They paid it forward or I should say paid it in advance,” Elisa said. “I just feel like it’s time maybe for those that can, to pay it back.”
Despite reaching out to several organizations over the years, the family has not yet found a solution. They’ve turned to the kindness of the community for assistance, hoping to rebuild the home that holds so many precious memories.
“All I can do is what the good Lord allows me to do, and right now I’m asking for help,” Alice said.
The Hills have set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for the repairs. Those wishing to support the family can donate here.
