John Wallace Hilton

John Wallace Hilton of Liberty, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, with his beloved wife, Linda Sue Hilton, by his side. He was 78 years old.

Born on August 1, 1946, in Warrensburg, Missouri, John was the son of Dr. Wallace A. Hilton and Ruth B. Hilton. In 1947, the family moved to Liberty when his father accepted the position of Chair of the Department of Physics at William Jewell College. John spent his formative years immersed in both the Liberty community and the college campus, where he often rode his bicycle across the quad and down Marston Hill, forming lifelong memories alongside his father in the physics department.

He graduated from Liberty High School in 1964 and earned a degree in physics from William Jewell College in 1968. He went on to pursue graduate studies at Kansas State University, working toward a master's degree in physics.

In 1969, after receiving a draft notice during the Vietnam War, John chose to enlist in the United States Air Force. He served as an Electrical Communications and Cryptographic Equipment Systems Repairman. While stationed at Beale Air Force Base in California, he earned his commercial pilot's license and frequently flew to destinations across the state-his favorite flight being to the Nut Tree in Vacaville for a steak dinner. He was honorably discharged in September 1973.

While on leave from the Air Force, John met the love of his life, Linda, at a New Year's Eve birthday party for Dr. Don Page. Their courtship continued through heartfelt letters exchanged while John completed his service in California. They married on July 19, 1975, and just one day before his passing, they celebrated 50 years of marriage surrounded by dear friends Andy and Susan Pettyjohn and John's brother Robert Hilton.

John built a distinguished career as an electrical engineer at the Kansas City National Security Campus (formerly Honeywell FM&T), where he served for 35 years. He was among the first in his division to earn the designation of Principal Engineer. Later in his career, John had the unique privilege of working alongside his son Mark, who joined the same department in 2005. The two shared daily carpools, countless lunches with colleagues, and a professional camaraderie until John's retirement in 2013. His presence left a lasting impression - years later, engineers, inspectors, and suppliers still ask Mark about his father with fondness and respect.

A lifelong member of Second Baptist Church in Liberty, John gave generously of his time and talents. He served faithfully as a deacon, head of the broadcasting ministry, leader of the Royal Ambassadors, recorder of Sunday School attendance, captain of the church softball team, and member of the sanctuary choir. His faith and service were cornerstones of his life.

Above all, John was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a proud grandfather - his wit was quick, his love unwavering, and his presence a steady anchor. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in love, laughter, and family.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Wallace and Ruth Hilton; his in-laws, Arvel "Dutch" and Mary Lou Huston; his sister-in-law, Katy Hilton; and his nephew, Jeffery Hilton.

He is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his children, Mark Christopher Hilton (Erin), Diana Lynn Hilton (Hariharan Viswanathan), and Scott John Hilton (Chelsea); and his grandchildren, Josie, Adelyn, Zane, Vivian, Edith, Wesley, Eleanor, and Anderson. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Hilton; brother-in-law, Ray Huston (Carole Wiggins); sisters-in-law, Lana (Tony) Southwick and Laura (Ed) Moore; cherished nieces, Tara (Brandt) Bell with children Dash and Holden, Kelly (Michael) Heger with children Griffin and Blair, and Allison Moore; treasured nephew, Travis Huston; and many beloved cousins, extended family, and friends.

A memorial service will be held at Second Baptist Church, 300 E. Kansas St., Liberty, MO, on Saturday August 2, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. in the Assembly Room. After the service, John's ashes will be scattered in the Second Baptist Memorial Garden.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John's name to:
Second Baptist Church, 300 E. Kansas St., Liberty, MO 64068
Department of Physics, William Jewell College, 500 College Hill, Liberty, MO 64068

Arrangements are in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.