Jimmy Gilbert Hilton Sr.

If he wasn’t home, Jimmy Gilbert Hilton Sr. was probably fishing at the beach. Friends and family will always remember his love for the beach. Jimmy passed away on Thursday, January 19, 2017 after a lengthy illness. He was born January 1, 1942 in Mecklenburg County to the late George and Mabel (Tate) Hilton. As a young man Jim loved playing football and boxing. Fishing became his favorite hobby and he still holds the world record for Gray Triggerfish since 1989. He was self-employed as a truck driver for many years and later retired from Duke Power. He loved his family and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Kathy Earnhardt and husband, Gene of Lincolnton, NC, Jimmy G. Hilton Jr. of Lincolnton, NC, step-daughters, Judy Burton and husband, Jimmy of Lake Wylie, SC and Patricia Fields and husband, Randy of Lake Wylie, SC; sisters, Judy Meek and husband, Larry of Gastonia, NC and Geraldine Farris of Concord, NC; six grandchildren; seven great-grand-children; one great great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 28 years, Mitchell Irene Hilton and sister, Betty Alexander.

A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, January 21, 2017 at Forest Lawn West Cemetery, Charlotte. Reverend Steve Myers will preside.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM on Saturday prior to the graveside service at Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park, 2205 Williamsburg Drive, Gastonia, NC 28054.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to River Hills Rescue Squad, 4 Heritage Drive, Lake Wylie, SC 29710.

Online condolences and fond memories may be made at: www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com;

Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park is honored to serve the Hilton family.