Ms. Ruth A. Hilton

Celebrating the Life of Ruth A. Hilton

December 3, 1943 – August 5, 2026

Her Life, Her Love, Her Legacy

Ruth A. Hilton was born December 3, 1943, in Girard, Georgia, to the late Norris Hilton Sr. and Georgia Mae Hilton Coleman. Also preceding her in death are brothers Norris Hilton Jr., Douglas Hilton, Ulysses Hilton, Mack Hilton, and sister Alice Hilton-Coleman. She graduated from Waynesboro High School and accepted Christ at an early age, becoming an active member of Cochran Grove Baptist Church in Girard, GA. Her faith remained an important source of strength throughout her life.

In the late 1960s, Ruth moved to Atlanta, Georgia, and later joined Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, where she served faithfully for over 40 years until her health began to decline. She compassionately cared for children in her church nursery for over 25 years.

A Life Devoted to Children

Some people discover their calling over time. For Ruth, caring for children became one of the great callings of her life. Ruth devoted more than 30 years to the DeKalb County School System, serving as a paraprofessional at Laurel Ridge Elementary School. Her love for children extended far beyond the classroom. Ruth was a devoted Foster Care Mom for DeKalb County Division of Family Services for over 43 years.

Ruth also provided Respite Care for many families, including children with special needs, often giving parents much-needed breaks on the weekends. Throughout the years, the many children she helped nurture became part of the beautiful story of her life.

Her hands helped raise children.

Her heart helped strengthen families.

And her kindness created memories that will continue long after her earthly journey.

Ruth was a compassionate, giving woman who loved her family deeply. She was also a proud member of the Red Hat Society and enjoyed fellowship with family and friends.

She leaves to cherish her memory her three daughters Cora Hilton, Teearra Hilton of Decatur, GA and Valisa Center of Chattanooga, Tennessee; two sons Darrell Hilton, Harold Hilton, of Decatur, GA; three grandchildren, Kamiyah, Keyunna, & Kimora Center, of Chattanooga, Tennessee; three brothers, Harry Hilton (Pat) of McDonough, Georgia, and Willie Coleman (Lynette) of Charleston, South Carolina; Earnest Coleman, Lithonia, Georgia; three sisters, Edna Wood (Andre) of Stockbridge, Georgia, and Elder Gloria Lewis (Leon) of Stone Mountain, Georgia; Jennie Jackson of Augusta, Georgia, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, former co-workers, church family, and the many children whose lives she lovingly touched.

Ruth’s life was one of faith, family, service, and love. Her gentle spirit and giving heart will live forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Memorial Service for Ms. Ruth A. Hilton, of Decatur, GA, will be Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 11:00AM; Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 2755 Campbellton Rd. SW, Atlanta, GA 30311.

The repast will take place immediately following the service: JW Event Suite, 416 Eagles Landing Pkwy, Stockbridge, GA 30281.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ms. Ruth A. Hilton, please visit our floral store.