Donald Ray Hilton died on April 10, 2026 surrounded in love by his wife and daughters. His loving strength, devotion and dedication to his family shining bright to the very last moment.
He was born on June 13, 1954 to Robert Carl Hilton and Dorothy Naomi Stinson in Portsmouth, Virginia. “Big Don” met the love of his life, Barbara, in 1975 and married her in 1977, spending over 50 years building a beautiful life together.
From his many years working at Amoco Oil Refinery in Yorktown, Virginia, as well as his time spent bowling, coaching softball, and playing golf, he made many lifelong friends, leaving an impression of gentle strength and supportive generosity with those who were blessed to know him. Those who he became as a second father to, his nieces and nephews, and his daughters’ friends, will miss his supportive encouragement. His friends and community at the Glades in Florida where he chose to spend his retirement years, will miss him and his welcoming presence. He built safe and beautiful houses for his girls, he built and created art with his wife for years in their woodcrafting business (though he wouldn’t have seen it quite that way), he built comfort, safety and security for his family in so many ways. His legacy of support and strength have created firm foundations for his family to honor him and carry on his legacy.
His memory will be held by his wife, Barbara, his two daughters, Amy and Rachael, and his grandson, Nathan, along with his brothers, Bob and George.
There will be a Celebration of Life held on June 13 at Newport News Park from 2-6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.