Gregory Hilton

GREGORY HILTON — loving husband; devoted father; revered grandfather; and beloved brother, uncle, and friend — passed away at the age of 67 on January 14. A man admired and respected by all, his life was spent in the service of God, his family, and his country, and with his passing he leaves a legacy which will bless and influence his posterity for generations to come.

Greg was born on April 22, 1956, in Manning, South Carolina, to Rebecca Blanding and Clarence Hilton, Sr. The fifth of seven children, Greg was raised in a close-knit and loving home alongside his six siblings: Leverne (Willie) Stroy; Clarence (Irene) Hilton, Jr.; Edrena (Bobby) Conyers; Diane (Paul) Aurelus; Maxine Hilton; and Crast Ann (Bobby) Tindal. His youth was filled with fond memories of time spent with each other, fostering relationships that were treasured throughout his life.

On June 17, 1978, Greg married the love of his life, Marie Mercedes Lloyd, in Stamford, Connecticut. Together they enjoyed 45 wonderful years of marriage and raised three children: Tasha, Shawn (Ami), and Micah (Kristie). Greg's wife and children were the joy of his life; that joy and love continually grew in subsequent years as the family expanded with in-laws, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved nothing more than spending time, laughing, and joking together. He enjoyed attending his children's and grandchildren's sporting events and school programs, and loved watching westerns (especially John Wayne programs) with them. His constant love and care has left an indelible impact in the lives of all his family.

Greg entered military service in May 1975 for the US Army. For the next 22 years he served active duty and achieved the rank of Army Sergeant First Class. After retiring from Dugway Proving Grounds in June 1997, he ran the Junior ROTC program for East High School for ten years, mentoring and influencing the lives of hundreds of student cadets in the process. In 2002 he graduated from Columbia University with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His wisdom and remarkable life of selfless service, allegiance, and patriotism toward his country will be long remembered and admired.

Greg's life was defined by his uncompromising desire to serve His Savior Jesus Christ. In 1980 he was ordained a Minister by Pentecostal Assemblies of God of America, and later he went on to found and serve as Senior Pastor of Victory Ministries of Christ Church. Greg was undeviating in his loyalty and devotion toward the Lord. He spoke the truth in love, was passionate about praying over others, and generously served and assisted all those he came in contact with. His exemplary life of discipleship can be best described by the Apostle Paul: "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me..." (2 Tim. 4:7-8, KJV).

Greg is preceded in death by his parents and sister. He is survived by his wife, three children, two daughter-in-laws, ten grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, five siblings, and ten nieces and nephews. He is deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all. Greg's family expresses their sincere gratitude to all who have so selflessly and lovingly ministered to him and them in recent days.

All services will be conducted Tuesday, January 23. A viewing will be held between 9:00-10:45 AM at Valley View Funeral Home (4335 W 4100 S, West Valley City, Utah 84120). Funeral services will follow between 11 AM and 12 PM. Graveside services will begin at 12:45 PM at Utah Veterans Cemetery and Memorial Park (17111 S Redwood Rd, Bluffdale, Utah 84065).