Tonie Hill was born on November 23, 1907, in Johnston County, North Carolina, to Fred and Tempy Stancil Hill.

Growing up in a large family, Tonie had many siblings, including Delia, Ronia "Ronie," John Fletcher, Millard Lee, William Moses, Pearl, James Clarence "Jim," George Preston, Edgar Resley, and Floyd Jackson "Jack." He also had half-siblings Arthur, Wilbert, and Nancy.

On August 18, 1932, Tonie married Ludie Edwards, who was born on November 22, 1915. Together, they built a life in Kenly, North Carolina, where Tonie worked as a farmer. The couple was blessed with six children: Braxton, Ralph, Josephine, Phillip, Billy Wayne and Jeri.

Tonie and Ludie shared many years together until Ludie's passing on July 4, 1988. Tonie continued to live on Route 2 in Kenly, cherishing the memories of their life together. After a period of failing health, Tonie passed away after a heart attack at the age of 82 on September 11, 1990.

Tonie and Ludie were laid to rest side by side at New Jerusalem Free Will Baptist Church on Route 2 in Kenly.

Their legacy lives on through their children and the many lives they touched in their community.