James Hilton

James "Jim" Hilton, a devout Catholic, family man, and Air Force veteran, entered into eternal rest on November 23, 2025. He was 83 years old.

Born September 21, 1942, Jim lived a life defined by commitment to his faith, country, and cherished family. He was the beloved son of the late Josephine and Arthur Hilton.

Jim proudly served our nation with distinction as a Captain in the United States Air Force. It was during his military service, stationed on the East Coast, that fate played its hand. At a dance hall on the Jersey Shore, he met the captivating Ellen (Gallagher) Hilton who became the love of his life. Their marriage, built on shared Catholic faith, was the foundation of 55 years of unwavering love and support.

Prior to his honorable service, Jim earned a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He parlayed his sharp intellect into a successful career in information technology, with skill and dedication until his retirement.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Jim was a parishioner of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Palos Hills. He modeled a prayerful life within his family and among his friends and associates.

His legacy is the love, faith, and wisdom he gave to his wife and family. He had many passions and interests. Jim was an avid gardener, who cultivated bounty and beauty through tending to his flowers, fruits and vegetables. His love of music filled the Hilton home, often serving as the soundtrack to lively family gatherings around the dining table. He pursued his interest in writing, creating short stories and even undertook writing a full length novel. His passion for learning was evident in his bookshelves and ability to speak on many subjects including history, church doctrine, economics, politics, etc. He remained sharp throughout his life, always reading and passionately competing in chess.

Jim was the proud father of: Tim (Anita) Hilton, Nancy (Richard) Arndt, Patrick Hilton, Maureen (Tony) Burger, and loving grandfather of: Ellen, Peter, Lauren, James (Lola), Michael, Jack Arndt, and Madeline, Devin, Anthony, Nora and Hazel Burger.

Jim 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 was also a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Sacred Heart Church on Dec. 3rd at 10 am. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Palos Hills on Dec. 3rd at 11am.

After the mass on Dec. 3rd, Captain James Hilton will be interred with full military honors at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Willows Academy; willowsacademy.org/giving, Midtown/Metro Achievement Centers; https://midtownmetro.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donate-now, or to Northridge Prep School; https://northridgeprep.org/giving/give-online/