Essie Louise Atkins Hilton left this earth on February 15, 2021 to live in her heavenly home. She left here peacefully from her earthly home surrounded by her loving family.
A strong woman of faith, Essie (her name means star) was a shining example to everyone she met. She was a great role model for her children showing them how a disciple of Christ should be. She led others to Christ through her kindness and love of people. She served her churches, First Baptist Church of Surfside, and Timberlake Baptist Church by serving as a ministry assistant (church secretary) with all of her heart. She led people to Christ, even over the telephone, when she helped a young woman come to Christ. She loved to sing and was faithful to the Lord by singing alto in the choir. She loved to sing to her children and passed on the love of music and rejoicing in the Lord.
Essie also loved to dance and share her joy of living. Her sense of humor made you laugh in the midst of hard circumstances. She found joy in everyday living and in studying God’s Word. She compiled “A book of Gems” that she mined from God’s Word and lived them. Her favorite verses were Jeremiah 29:13 and 2 Corinthians 5:17.
Essie was born in Wadesboro, NC the daughter of the late Julia Rushing Skinner (William Guy Skinner) and Matthew Atkins. Her husband, Billy Bryce Hilton, Sr. left this earth in 2019. She has left behind her sister, Edna Winkler: her four children: Patricia Hilton Braynard ( Paul), Nita Hilton Ayres (Felix), Billy Brice Hilton, Jr., Alan Blair Hilton (Anne); her five grandchildren, Lauren Ayres Brigman (Ross), Anthony John Ayres, Alexander Paul Braynard (Candice), Mackenzie Blair Hilton: one great grandchild, Taylor Nichole Elkins.
Giving to others is part of Essie Hilton’s legacy. In lieu of flowers ,donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or American Stroke Association. The family appreciates your prayers and love.
A Heartfelt thank you to Heartland Hospice, Home Instead and Waccamaw Caregiver Support Program for the loving care and support given to the family.
A graveside service for family and friends will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery, 1000 SC-544, Conway, SC on February 22, 2021 @ 11:00.
Burroughs Funeral Home (843-651-1440) of Murrells Inlet is in charge of the arrangements.
To send flowers
to the family, please visit our floral store.