Johnny Dean Bilton

Survivors include his loving wife of 35 years, Esther Bilton; first wife, Deborah Richardson; daughter, Rachel Dameron (Matt); sons, John Bilton (Susan), Brian Bilton (Jean), Tim Pruett (Tina); brother, Donald M. Bilton (Teresa); nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Emily Mae Bilton; Father, Eddie Bilton; brothers, Ronnie Bilton, Herschel Bilton, Dallas Bilton; sisters, Jerri Huggins and Joan Huggins.

John moved to the North Myrtle Beach area in 1955 from Mullins. After graduating Wampee High School, John then graduated from Horry-Georgetown Technical College in 1969. John was an avid golfer, hunter and fisherman. He also enjoyed spending time on the beach. A member of St. Stephens Episcopal Church in North Myrtle Beach, John was a devout Christian and man of faith. He cherished each moment spent with his family and friends.

Throughout his career, John was an insurance agent. He was the owner and operator of The Bilton Agency on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach. He was also very involved in the community. John was a member of numerous clubs where he held several different positions. He was a charter of the Little River Rotary Club and the first president of the club. He was also a charter member of the North Myrtle Beach Optimist Club. John was a very active member in the Little River Lions Club and the Little River Chamber of Commerce. John briefly lived in Georgetown, South Carolina for six years where he chartered for the Georgetown Optimist Club.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday February 4, 2024 at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 801 11th Ave N., North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582. Interment will immediately follow the service at North Myrtle Beach Memorial Gardens, 65 SC-90 Little River, SC 29566.

Lee Funeral Home and Crematory of Little River is serving the family.