James Raynor & Rita May Hilt

He is predeceased by his devoted wife of fifty years, Rita May Hilt, his loving son, James Carlton Darveau Hilt, his brothers Robert Hilt, step-brothers Roger Darveau, Jackie Darveau and step-sister Carol Wagner. He is survived by his brother, Frank Hilt (Carol), sister Mary Kaye Hilt, step-brothers Larry Darveau (Joyce) and Steven Darveau (Mary), son Michael Hilt (Kim), daughters Dorothy McNee, Kathryn M. Hilt, and Nanette Tool (Harold), daughter in-law’s Jeri Hilt, Patti Hilt, grandchildren Laura Lambert, Amy McBride (Chris), Caitlin Cerge, Stephen Schumacher (Monise), Stephanie Cauble (Matthew), Allen McNee, Harrison Tool, James Nathan Hilt and Samantha Tool, as well as eight great grandchildren.

He was born in Kansas City, Missouri on August 28th, 1938 to James W. and Dorothy L. Hilt and was one of four children. His father and mother divorced and as a result, James was blessed with four additional step-brothers and a step-sister.

James entered into the U.S. Navy at the age of 17 as an enlisted recruit and worked diligently as a co-pilot/navigator until his retirement as Lieutenant Commander in 1985. He loved his naval career and the friends gained and kept in touch with many until his death. He continued his career as a civilian trainer for the Navy in the S-3B aircraft and retired in 2008.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother and friend by many. He took exceptional care of his family and loved them with all of his heart. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to his CNA’s, Dorris Hamilton and Donna Householder, for the dedication, love and care they provided. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to a charity of their choice in his honor.

Rita May Hilt, age 76, passed away after an extended illness on Friday, February 19th, 2010. She is survived by her devoted husband of fifty years, James R. Hilt, sons Michael Hilt (Patti), James C. Hilt (Jeri), daughters Dorothy Hilt, Kathryn M. Marshburn (James) and Nanette Tool (Harold), grandchildren Laura Hilt, Amy Hilt, Caitlin Persinger (Josh), Stephen Schumacher, Stephanie McNee, Allen McNee, Harrison Tool, James Nathan Hilt and Samantha Tool.

She was born in Waltham, Massachusetts on April 11, 1933 to Carlton and Geneva Miller and was one of eleven children. Rita, an RN, was instrumental in opening Orange Park Medical Center, where she served in various capacities until her retirement in 1998.

She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother and friend by many. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of Orange Park Medical Center – 3rd Floor North wing for their loving care during her stay.

A celebration of life for both Jim and Rita will be held at 11am, Saturday, November 20, 2021 at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Legacy Lodge, 4801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville.