Tribute to Grandma Hilton

From the moment I met Grandma and Grandpa Hilton in the Spring of 2001, I have been crazy about them. I still remember that first moment when Shane introduced me to them and the generous, genuine smiles on their kind faces put me at ease. They welcomed me into the family and loved me simply because Shane loved me and they loved him. I have so much appreciation and respect for them and have cherished the time we've spent in their presence. They are such a magnificent example of eternal companionship to us.
Last night, Grandma Hilton passed away. In many ways this is a huge blessing. Grandma, as her family knew her, had been distant for a while. Alzheimer's had taken away some of who she used to be in the last few years. But it had also intensified her sweetness and her smile I think. We are grateful that Grandma doesn't have to live in a failing mortal body any longer and we are grateful that Grandpa can know she is in a better place with those loved ones who have gone on before her. Grandpa has been such a devoted husband and has so intensely loved Grandma, standing by her side throughout their marriage. Grandma did so much good in her lifetime and I am glad I knew her and felt her tender spirit in my life over the last eight years. We love you and will miss you Grandma! Much love to Grandpa! We look forward to being with you soon to celebrate Grandma's life.
Pictures taken in Rocky Point, Mexico in December of 2007.
(Originally posted on our family blog, www.thearizonaexperiment.blogspot.com, on June 24, 2009 by Megan)

memories of grandma

I love so many things about grandma, she was always loving and gentle and happy. I'll always remember the smell of grandma's house, and how excited I was to see her. I have so many wonderful memories of her, here are some of them:

• her carmel popcorn - delicious
• giving me 'sweet dreams' kisses on my eyelids at bedtime
• yummy suckers - rootbeer, cinnamon, and butterscotch were my favorites
• sitting on the porch watching the hummingbirds together
• getting me all cozy and warm, with hot jello and blankets, after going sledding
• sitting by the fish pond as we played around it
• her loving smile and huge hug whenever I saw her
• breakfast at her house - we got to choose our own mini cereal boxes AND put sugar on our already sweetend cereal
• playing with the toys under the sewing machine, the snake was my favorite
• "I love you thi-i-i-i-i-i-s big"
• listening to stories she recorded on tape for us when I was little
• gently reminding me to be careful as I climbed all over the rocks outside
• sitting in her chair making afghans
• giving me treats from her candy dish on the mantel
• her unconditional love

She was such a loving sweet grandma - the best! I already miss her. I'll keep trying to grow up to be just like her.

Obituary

Ruth Patten Hilton

Sandy

February 18, 1929 - June 24, 2009

Ruth Patten Hilton, age 80, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2009, one week after celebrating her 62nd wedding anniversary with A. Eugene Hilton. She was born on February 18, 1929 in Provo Bench, Utah, the daughter of Floyd Talmage & Fanny Terry Patten.

She held prominent positions at Lincoln High School, graduating in 1947. Her entire life has been one of cheerful service to others, especially to family and church, having served 5 honorable missions with her husband in numerous countries around the globe. She leaves a legacy of love, knowing that families can be together forever. Her contagious smile through years of service is her trademark.

Ruth and Gene were blessed with seven children, Allen E. Hilton II, Jeanette H. Pratt, Kent R. Hilton, Susan H. Wood, Joseph T. Hilton, J. Terry Hilton (deceased), and Gary H. Hilton, 43 grandchildren and 57 great-grandchildren. Her brothers, Sterling Patten, Cree Patten, and sister Jane P. Nelson also survive her.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 27, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the Granite View Stake Center, 9880 South 3100 East, Sandy, Utah. Family and friends may call Friday evening from 6-8:00 p.m. at the Stake Center and Saturday one hour prior to the service. Interment, Provo City Cemetery. Online guest book at wingmortuary.com.

We note with gratitude the exceptional service of the Intermountain Home Care personnel and the Little Cottonwood Ward Relief Society and Priesthood.