Joseph G. Hilton, Sr., 48, of Worcester, passed away Saturday, August 2, 2008, in his home. He leaves his wife of twenty-six years, Margie V. (Meeks) Hilton; two sons: Joseph G. Hilton, Jr. and David P. Hilton; a daughter, Katrina F. Hilton, a granddaughter, Javiana Hilton, all of Worcester; a brother, Stanley J. Hilton of Worcester; two sisters: Alicia Mompoint of Worcester and Veda Hilton of Brockton; a step-brother, Phillip Hamilton; a step-sister, Carole Walker of Silver Springs, Maryland; three sisters-in-law, Elsie Allotey and Mary P. Andrews, both of Worcester, and Juanrithia Mason of Connecticut; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. He was born in Worcester, son of the late Porter J. and Emily Janet (Williams) Hilton. Having lost his mother at an early age, he was raised by his step-mother, Frances (Hamilton) Hilton. He has lived his entire life in Worcester, and graduated from Doherty High School, and then attended UMass Amherst. He served in the Massachusetts Air National Guard.

   Joseph was a telephone technician for Verizon, where he has been working for twenty-four years. He was a member of Belmont A.M.E. Zion Church, where he served on the Usher Board, was a former trustee, and was a mentor in the Boys to Men program. He was a New England Patriots fan. His smile was infectious, and he was liked by everyone who met him. Joe had a smile for everyone, a kind heart, he was funny, and full of life and caring.

   The funeral for Joseph will be held Friday, August 8, at 11 a.m. in Temple Emanuel, 280 May Street, Worcester. Interment will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours will be held Thursday, August 7, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hilton Children’s College Fund, in care of Bank of America, 651 Park Avenue, Worcester, MA 01603.