James Francis Hilton

James “Jim” Francis Hilton, born July 3, 1950, in Mount Victoria, MD, peacefully departed this life on May 12, 2026, surrounded by love. Jim was an adored husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. The firstborn to the late James and Evelyn Hilton. Jim graduated from La Plata High School, class of 1968. In October of that same year, he began working at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division, assembling rocket motors. He proudly answered his country’s call when drafted in 1970 and served with honor as a Military Police Officer in Vietnam. Once returning home, he built a distinguished career at the Smithsonian Institution Hirshhorn Museum and the National Zoological Park. Jim retired in 2009, after 40 years of service as a Supervisory Safety Officer. On December 3, 1983, Jim married Melissa, and together they created a life filled with love and family. They shared a son, James Tyrone (1974–1977), who is lovingly remembered. Jim was a devoted father to their daughter, Crystal French (Phillip). He cherished his grandchildren, Deonte’ Sifuentes, Corey and Chloe French. He poured love into Khalil, Khyree, and Decota Watson and had a very strong hand in helping to raise and mentor them. He was a proud godfather to Keyonna Brooks, Jewel McFadden, and Katina Reid. Jim shared a special and enduring bond with his siblings: Charles; Dwight (Judy); Stanley (Cheryl); Thomas (Bonnie); and his late sister, Doris “Eloise” Dodson (John), who remained close to his heart throughout his life. He is also lovingly remembered by his extended Watson family—Don, Lillian, Dorinda Warren (Larry), Fabian, Arnold, Sheryl, Deborah, Cindy Miller (Carlos), Adriene; and the late Jeffrey and Tyrone Watson—along with many relatives and dear friends with whom he shared countless moments of joy and fellowship. Jim was a pillar in the motorcycle and veterans’ communities—serving as the chapter President of the Harley-Davidson Maryland Chapter 1 and an active member of the Rolling Thunder MD1 Charter and the Boys II Men Motorcycle Club. He served as the Muscular Dystrophy Association Coordinator for the Fort Washington Chapter of the Harley Owners Group and volunteered with the American Gold Star Mothers, supporting families who lost their children in service. Known affectionately as “Jimmy” or “Jim,” he was a perfectionist who loved home improvements, fishing, playing pool, bowling, and riding through various locations on his motorcycle. He took great pride in his role as family Photographer, capturing the moments that mattered most. He spoiled all his nieces and nephews and was regarded as an excellent teacher, attentive listener, and reliable role model. As a faithful member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Washington, D.C., Jim served as Minister of Hospitality, welcoming all with warmth and generosity. Jim will be remembered for his strength of character, generous spirit, and the many ways he served others—at home, at work, in his community, and his country. Though he has taken his final ride, his legacy will live on in all who knew and loved him. The family asks in lieu of flowers and gifts donations be made to; Alzheimer’s association : https://alzfdn.org/donate/ And/ or MDA: https://giving.mda.org/page/EndALSwithMDA?_gl=1*1eos8rl*_gcl_au*MTcwODA0Mjk3NC4xNzc4ODkzODk4

James Francis Hilton

July 3, 1950 - May 12, 2026