John “JD” Hilburn, age 90, of Naomi and formerly of Villanow and West Armuchee passed away on Sunday, November 10, 2024. He was a US Army veteran.
The son of the late John James and Nola Shelby Hilburn, he was also preceded in death by his daughter, Roxanne Hilburn Hampton of LaFayette, and his sisters, Vivian Hilburn Rhineheart and Genelle Hilburn Clark of LaFayette, GA.
John is survived by his dedicated wife, Nellie Davis Hilburn of 64.5 years, residence of Villanow, West Armuchee and Naomi, GA; son, DeWayne (Janie) Hilburn of Villanow, GA; daughter, Donna Hilburn Hewitt of Warner Robins, GA, eight grandchildren, Josh (Brooke) Hampton, Brandon (Desraee Yonce) Hampton and Alicia (Tristan Cauthen) Hampton, Chrystal Hilburn, Michelle (Colton Pence) Hilburn, David Hilburn of LaFayette, GA, Amanda (Jeff) Thornton Sissel of Byron, GA. USAF MSgt Ret Justin (Morgan Tahara) Thornton of Colorado Springs, CO; 16 great-grandchildren: Haleigh and Landon Hampton, Isaac, Leland, Peyton Hampton and Trinity Yonce, Olivia (Chase Guthrie) MaGaha and Katelynn McGaha, Ryan and Carter Scoggins, Jeb and Zoe Cauthen, Maverick and Ivy Pence, all of LaFayette GA, Mylan Sissel of Byron GA, Haley (Matt) Sissel Waters of Macon GA, USAF SrA Brooklyn McKenzie (USAF SrA Cole) Broome-Machlic, Hampton VA; three great-great grandchildren, Roxy Hampton, Liam and Oakley Guthrie; and sister, Dorothy Hilburn Oglesby of LaFayette.
He was a kind man, head strong but loving. He loved his family, his farms, driving his tractors, raising cattle and making beautiful, bountiful gardens that he enjoyed sharing with neighbors.
John built many houses and barns in his lifetime. Some of his favorite things, before unable, was riding his four-wheeler or mowing the grass till the dirt flew. He loved toasting marshmallows and sitting by an open fire. Though frail and wheelchair bound, he enjoyed a couple of fishing trips for his 90th birthday. Many great memories were made for all.
Per John’s request, there will be no service, only cremation.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to hospice in his memory.
Arrangements are by Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.
