Betty Grace Hilton

Betty Grace Steven Hilton, age 77, of Winnsboro, Louisiana passed away peacefully at her home on June 9, 2026.

Born on March 18, 1949, Betty was the daughter of the late Alton Stevens and Tilby DaCosta Stevens. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, United States Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Jerry F. Hilton; and her sisters, Gayle Sheridan Stevens, Teressa Ann Stevens Carter, Jenny Brenda Stevens Meredith, and Althea Darlene Stevens Carter.

Betty retired as manager for Pier 1 Imports and was a devoted homemaker. As the wife of a distinguished Air Force Veteran, she took great pride in supporting her husband throughout his military career and remained deeply patriotic throughout her life.

A certified Master Gardener, Betty was well known for maintaining one of the most beautiful and meticulously landscaped yards in her neighborhood. Her gardens often featured patriotic themes and proudly displayed American flags, reflecting her love for her country and her pride in being a veteran’s wife.

Betty was also an exceptional cook who believed that homemade was always best. Family and friends fondly recall her confidence in the kitchen and her playful insistence that her recipes were “better.” She loved traveling and was always planning her next adventure, though declining health eventually limited her ability to do so. Betty especially enjoyed hosting parties, holiday celebrations, and family gatherings. For many of her loved ones, “Aunt Betty’s House” was known as the family’s “fun house,” particularly during her beloved Forth of July celebrations.

Above all else Betty’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving mother to Scott Alton Matthews and his wife, Jolene, of Merryville, Louisiana, and Johnathan Heath Matthews of Winnsboro, Louisiana. Her grandchildren brought immeasurable happiness to her life, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. She is survived by her grandchildren, Breighanna Matthews Beal and her husband, Stephen; Scott Matthews, Andrew Matthews; and Brooklyn Matthews. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her great grandchildren, Ellie Beal and Bennett Matthews.

Betty is also survived by her sisters, Deborah Stevens Chapman of Winnsboro, Louisiana; Kathy Stevens Sanford and her husband, Jimmy of Monroe Louisiana; and Cynthia Stevens Huff and her husband, Todd, of Winnsboro, Louisiana. She leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, and a dear friend and caregiver – Dee Rayborn all of whom will forever cherish her memory and the love she shared so generously.

No memorial service is planned at the time. Upon the return of her ashes, the family intends to hold a small Celebration of Life at Oakley Cemetery in Gilbert, Louisiana.

In lieu of flowers, food, or gifts, memorial monetary donations may be made at Franklin State Bank for the care and well-being of Johnathan Matthews. Please inform the teller that the donation is designated for Johnathan Matthews.