Beloved Hollywood Governess Alice Ann Hill Dies at 82

The longtime caretaker for celebrity families like the Hudsons and Bogarts spent her retirement caring for pets and children in Delaware.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Alice Ann Hill, known affectionately as "Nanny Ali," passed away on December 9, 2025 at the age of 82. Hill had a long career as a governess for high-profile families in New York, Florida, and Los Angeles, caring for the children of celebrities like Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, and the Bogart family. After retiring to Lewes, Delaware, she continued her lifelong passion for caring for children and animals.

Why it matters

Hill's story highlights the often unsung role of governesses in the lives of wealthy and famous families, providing a personal and nurturing touch that went beyond just childcare duties. Her dedication to her work and the families she served over decades is a testament to the profound impact caregivers can have, even if their names don't always make headlines.

The details

Born in Wilmington, Delaware in 1943, Hill completed an elite governess training program in New York City at age 19 before embarking on a career that took her to the homes of prominent families like the Astors, Kennedys, and DuPonts on the East Coast. She later worked for the McIntosh family in Florida and the Bogart family in Los Angeles, developing close friendships with celebrities like Donna Summer and Judith Chapman. Hill's most famous role was caring for the children of Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell, even appearing in a scene of the film "Overboard." After retiring to Lewes, Delaware, Hill continued her caregiving work at a local kennel and for the children of friends and family.

  • Alice Ann Hill was born on November 8, 1943 in Wilmington, Delaware.
  • Hill completed her governess training in New York City at age 19.
  • Hill began her career as a governess for the Astor family in New York City.
  • Hill worked for the McIntosh family in Florida and the Bogart family in Los Angeles.
  • Hill passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025 in Lewes, Delaware at the age of 82.

The players

Alice Ann Hill

Also known as "Nanny Ali," she was a longtime Hollywood governess who cared for the children of many celebrity families over her decades-long career.

Goldie Hawn

Acclaimed actress who hired Hill to care for her children Oliver and Kate Hudson, as well as Wyatt Russell.

Kurt Russell

Actor and longtime partner of Goldie Hawn, who worked with Hill when she cared for their children.

Judith Chapman

Television and film actress who was a close friend of Hill's.

Donna Summer

Disco singer who was also a dear friend of Hill's.

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What they’re saying

“Do you have a funny girl with a personality?”

— Goldie Hawn

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

A memorial service for Alice Ann Hill is planned for Friday, April 17 at St. Jude The Apostle Church in Lewes, Delaware.

The takeaway

Hill's life story is a heartwarming reminder of the profound impact that dedicated caregivers can have, even if their names don't always make it into the spotlight. Her decades of service to prominent families and her continued passion for caring for children and animals in her retirement years exemplify the selfless and nurturing spirit that defined her remarkable career.