Obituary of James Russell Hilton

James “Jim” Russell Hilton July 10, 1941 - January 16, 2015 James “Jim” Russell Hilton of Danielson died January 16, 2015 at the age of 73 in his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born July 10, 1941, in Pomfret, to Leonard Russell Hilton and Vera Karlson. He is survived by his loving wife, Amy Flagg Hilton. Jim and Amy were married on a snowy evening on December 5, 1981. Amy held his hand as he passed, his ever-present partner for 33 years, an endless love. Jim is also survived by his three children: daughter LuAnn Hilton Sajjadi and husband Shar of Florida, Michael James Hilton of East Hartford, CT, and Wade Russell Hilton of Danielson, CT. Jim was a guiding force in his children’s lives. He flew to Montana while Wade was active duty with the United States Air Force, coached Mike’s baseball team and was proud of Mike as a United States Peace Corps Volunteer, and walked LuAnn down the aisle. Jim also leaves his brother, Lawrence Raymond Hilton and wife Lorraine of New Jersey. Despite distance, Larry kept in constant contact with his brother; checking in and remembering good times young and old. Jim was employed with the State of Connecticut for 22 years with the Department of Income Maintenance working in the Purchasing Department, he retired in 1990. Jim was a long time member of the Eastford Independent Fire Department Company. After moving to Florida in 1990, he volunteered at the Lake Helen Fire Department in Florida. He was enlisted with the Army National Guard from 1962 to 1968, and was a devoted Free-Mason with the Putnam Lodge #46, S. Woodstock for over 40 years. Jim was an avid reader of western novels, and will be remembered as thoughtful and generous; always ready with a witty story and a sharp joke. You could not ever find a more honest or caring man. Jim touched many lives, was deeply loved by his family and friends, and will be greatly missed. We take comfort from our memories and feel lucky to have had him as part of our lives. Calling Hours will be Thursday, January 22, 2015 from 12:00 to 1:00 PM at the Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove Street, Putnam followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM. Burial in South Cemetery Pomfret with Military Honors. Contributions in Jim’s name can be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Northeastern Connecticut: PO Box 632, Putnam, CT 06260 or Eastford Independent Fire Company, PO Box 333, Eastford, CT 06242. They were helpful and comforting for the family who are grateful for their service. Share a memory with his family at www.smithandwalkerfh.com