James “Jim” Hilton, a devoted Catholic, loving family man, and proud United States Air Force veteran, entered into eternal rest on Nov. 23, 2025, at the age of 83.
Born on Sept. 21, 1942, Jim was the beloved son of the late Josephine and Arthur Hilton. His life was marked by faith, service, and dedication to those he loved. He served his country with honor as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force. While stationed on the East Coast, he met the love of his life, Ellen (Gallagher) Hilton, at a dance hall on the Jersey Shore. Their shared Catholic faith and deep affection became the foundation of 55 years of marriage and unwavering devotion.
Before entering military service, Jim earned a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He later built a successful career in information technology, where his sharp intellect and strong work ethic earned him great respect until his retirement.
Jim lived his faith daily. As a parishioner of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Palos Hills, he exemplified a prayerful and intentional Catholic life, shaping both his family and friendships with integrity and kindness.
At home, Jim cultivated joy through his many passions. He was an avid gardener who delighted in tending to his flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Music often filled his home, setting the backdrop for spirited family gatherings. A lifelong learner, he was a writer of short stories and even pursued a full-length novel. His interests spanned history, church doctrine, economics, politics, and more. Books lined his shelves, and he remained intellectually sharp—always reading, always learning, and often found engaged in a competitive game of chess.
Jim was the proud father of Tim (Anita) Hilton, Nancy (Richard) Arndt, Patrick Hilton, and Maureen (Tony) Burger. He was the loving grandfather of Ellen, Peter, Lauren, James (Lola), Michael, Jack Arndt, and Madeline, Devin, Anthony, Nora, and Hazel Burger.
He was the dear brother of JoAnn (Richard) Oswald, Bill (Debbie) Hilton, Rich (Sandy) Hilton, and the late John (Pat, and former sister-in-law Sue) Hilton. Jim will also be warmly remembered by many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Palos Hills, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m.
After the Mass, Captain James Hilton will be interred with full military honors at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Willows Academy (willowsacademy.org/giving), Midtown/Metro Achievement Centers (midtownmetro.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate-now), or Northridge Prep School (northridgeprep.org/giving/give-online).
Arrangements entrusted to Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home, 11028 Southwest Hwy., Palos Hills, Illinois.