Serena Hills

Serena (Sabita) Devi Hills crossed to the other side of the veil on Monday, August 29th, 2022.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Robert, and two daughters, Allison and Lorna, as well as her three grandsons, Gavin, Carter, and Hadyn.

Serena deeply touched many lives during her lifetime. She was close to her 10 siblings, all born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago and children of Dolly and Nanan Maharaj. The Maharaj family share a special bond and stick together through life's ups and downs despite the geographical distance between them. Serena called and messaged them daily, spreading laughter with her humor and comfort in times of need. She had a knack for remembering birthdays, special occasions, and was always prepared with a loving message or thoughtful gift. She would travel in a moment's notice to be with family and was by her mother's side in Trinidad when she left this world in 2005.

Serena also put her heart into her career. She trained to be a midwife and nurse in England and was a maternity nurse (overnight shift) for many years at Lakeside Memorial Hospital in Brockport. She lovingly cared for expectant and new mothers and had a special place in her heart for newborns. She spent many nights holding and nurturing babies during their first days of life. Serena also forged deep lifelong friendships with her Lakeside colleagues who became like family to one another.

After retiring from nursing, Serena became a grandmother, which brought her utter joy and pride. From the day her first grandson was born; she was 100% devoted to her new role. She was present for all the milestones, the illnesses, the special occasions, and helped raise her first two grandsons so that her daughter could train to be a psychologist. She even moved three times to different states (PA, KY, and then back to NY) to be with her beloved grandchildren. Her three grandsons have such fond memories of all the time she spent with them, the love she poured over them, and are gifted with being so cherished by her.

Serena's love and devotion was also evident in her lifelong dedication to her husband, Robert, who she married on October 4, 1968. They ventured on a beautiful journey together that included raising two daughters, travels throughout the world, and seeing each other through good and bad times. Robert is now facing the unimaginable; a life without Serena by his side. They were getting ready to sell their house to start the next chapter of their life together.

Serena loved baking and cooking for her loved ones; and became an amazing gluten-free chef after her daughters developed allergies. She also cherished gatherings and holidays. Every one of her grandsons' birthdays were made extra special. They also received something special from her at every holiday. At Christmastime, the house was packed full of holiday cards from around the world– an outpouring of greetings and love from all the people who cared for her dearly.

Words can't fully express the magnitude of Serena's impact on those she loved. May fond memories help heal their hearts.



"Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come."
-Rabindranath Tagore


Click to view Serena's service