News & Opinion
Righteous Torrence "TK" Hill (Chevy), a Black transman, 35, was reportedly murdered last week Thursday, February 29, 2024. Artist and LGBT-rights activist Yves Mathieu-East, a friend of Hill, shared the news of his murder via Instagram. Details surrounding his death are limited at this time,
Loved by many, Hill was an indispensable community leader known for his humility, exceptional talent, and most importantly, his kind heart.
Originally from Macon, GA, Hill was the founder/owner of Evollusion, an Atlanta-based full-service hair salon dedicated to serving the LGBTQIA+ community specializing in hair, nails, barbering, and makeup.
Countering the Black, traditional, barbershop culture that is typically felt as a queerphobic environment, Hill’s salon offered a much-needed safe space for the Black, LGBTQIA+ residents of Atlanta and its surrounding areas.
His barbershop Evollusion made a statement on Facebook regarding Hill’s passing:
“It is with deepest sorrow that we inform you of the death of our beloved son, brother, partner, and father Righteous Torrence “TK” Hill (Chevy) on February 29, 2024. We want to thank everyone who has reached out during our time of bereavement.”
“The kind words and shared memories makes our heart smile and eases the pain. We know the awesome person Righteous was, but seeing the place he holds in you guys heart brings some joy to our difficult days.”
8 days before his passing, Hill posted while camping, expressing his reflections on working towards his growth and happiness in life:
“AS I LAY IN THIS TENT I REALIZE IMMEDIATELY camping is relaxing and I’M NOT the same as I used to be. I’m grown now. I try my best to avoid things taking me back to the old me. MOST importantly I’m still working on myself. Letting people feel like they’ve “won” has helped me drastically [reduce] ignorance and drama in my life! AMAZINGLY I now have time and cognitive focus on my FOCUS! Point is I’m a mature, happy adult & I thank God for the growth.”
Righteous Torrence Hill, known by his loved ones as “TK” , will forever be remembered as one who fostered a loving, caring environment and served as an empowering light for others.
Gaye Magazine sends our deepest condolences to Hill’s family and loved ones.