Mrs. Rita Diane Hilton, age 60 years old, of Willacoochee, Ga. passed away Monday, November 20, 2023, at Coffee Regional Medical Center in Douglas, Ga. following a brief illness.
She was born in Jacksonville, Florida on December 20, 1962, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank and Everlene Oxlye Rowland. Mrs. Hilton made her home in Willacoochee for the past 20 years, where she worked with the Atkinson Co. Board of Education as a lunchroom lady at Willacoochee Elementary School. She enjoyed many things in her life like, going to the mountains, shopping, watching her favorite TV shows, working in her yard, as well as loving and taking care of her pet, Chloe, but her most precious time was spent being with family and making memories that will last a lifetime. Mrs. Hilton was of the Baptist faith and was preceded in death, along with her parents, by two brothers: Allen and Harold Rowland.
Survivors include:
Husband: Terry Hilton of Willacoochee, Ga.
2 Daughters: Ashley Welch of Pearson, Ga.
Victoria Tanner and husband Austin of Homerville, Ga.
2 Sons: Justin Hilton of Willacoochee, Ga.
T.J. Hilton of Nebraska
2 Brothers: Johnnie Rowland and wife Ida Jane of Jacksonville, Fl.
8 Grandchildren: Kiley, Brantley, Sara, Kenzie, Bella, Skyler, Caden, and Kelzie
Several nieces, nephews, and other relatives also survive.
Funeral services for Mrs. Hilton were held on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. at Relihan Funeral Home Chapel in Pearson, Ga. with Rev. Clyde Purvis officiating. Special musical selection included “Amazing Grace” rendered by cd. The interment followed in Willacoochee City Cemetery.
Serving as active pallbearers were: Justin Hilton, Josh Hilton, Donnie Stone, Antwan Thomas, Danny Rowland, and Josh Rowland, Jr.
Relihan Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.