Six Nations is mourning the loss of former councilor Deborah Styres Hill who passed away on April 18 with family by her side.

Styres-Hill began her political career with Six Nations Elected Council (SNEC) from 1992 to 1993 after she was the winner of a by-election to take over the District #3 position left by George Bomberry. She was then re-elected as the councillor for District #3 under the Forty-Ninth Elected Council from 1994 to 1995.

In a press release from SNEC on Thursday night, it stated that Styres Hill came to council on a mission to make a change.

“Her dedication to community and political advocacy is resounding today in education, employee wellness and special needs and mental health healthcare,” it stated.

Some key projects she worked on with SNEC included being the band council representative on the board of directors for the Six Nations Special Services for Special People – now known as Ronatahskats (Six Nations Community Living); she sat on the building committee for the Building Project of I.L. Thomas Elementary School; she participated in the review of Employment Policy; and she was one of the council members that sat on the Elections Guidelines Committee.

Six Nations Elected Chief Mark Hill offered his condolences to Styres Hill’s family and friends in the press release.

“Our hearts go out to Deborah’s family and friends as we mourn her extraordinary life,” he said. “Deborah’s leadership and advocacy for the Six Nations Community will never be forgotten,” Hill stated.

CJKS reached out to Chief Hill but he was unavailable for further comments. 

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