Willie J. Hylton

Willie J. Hylton, 71, a respected leader and the current President of the West Virginia State Elks, passed away Monday, Dec. 8, 2025, at Peyton Hospice House in Lewisburg. Willie’s dedication to service and leadership left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Born in Ronceverte, WV, Willie spent his childhood in Union and graduated from Union High School in 1973. He worked full-time while earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Bluefield State College in 1996, and later, a Master’s Degree in Business Management from West Virginia University in 1999.
Willie was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He first married Linda Carper of Sweet Springs, and together they had one daughter, Sara Lewis (Ben) of Greensboro, NC. Willie was a proud grandfather to Austin Lewis (Morgan) of St. Albans, WV, and Bradley Lewis of South Charleston, WV, as well as a cherished great-grandfather to Carter Lewis of St. Albans.
On July 21, 1995, Willie married Patricia Clay and together they shared nearly 30 years of marriage. They raised two sons, Donnie Wise (Misha) of Dallas, TX, and Stephen Wise (Candace) of Front Royal, VA. Willie was also a loving grandfather to Ellie, Elsie, and Jude Wise. He found companionship with his beloved fur babies, Penny and Luna.
Willie retired from UTC Aerospace Systems after a distinguished career marked by professionalism and leadership. His commitment to community service shone during his 41 years of membership in the Lewisburg Elks Lodge #1758 of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. Willie held many leadership roles, including Exalted Ruler for three consecutive terms (2019–2022), Treasurer, Secretary, Trustee, and Chairman of several committees.
In 2025, Willie became the first West Virginia State Elks President from Lewisburg Elks Lodge #1758 – a historic achievement. He also served in important district and state roles, such as District Deputy Esquire and District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler for the South District and held various leadership positions within the West Virginia Elks Association. Willie contributed to several committees and initiatives, including the Elks National Foundation, Hoop Shoot, and the Major Project Board.
Willie is survived by his wife, Patricia Hylton; daughter, Sara Lewis (Ben); sons, Stephen Wise (Candace) and Donnie Wise (Misha); grandchildren, Austin Lewis (Morgan), Bradley Lewis, Ellie Wise, Elsie Wise, and Jude Wise; great-grandson, Carter Lewis; sisters, Polly Burns and Sue Martin; brother, Donnie Fisher; and his treasured pets, Penny and Luna.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ethel Pauline Hylton and Willie Ivan Hylton; brothers, Franklin Fisher and James P. (J.P.) Fisher; and several nieces and nephews.
Willie’s life was defined by dedication, kindness, and a spirit of community. His unwavering commitment to his family and the values he upheld will continue to inspire all who knew him. Though he is gone, his memory and legacy remain strong. May his family find comfort in the love he shared and the lasting imprint he left on their lives and the community.
“A special thanks to Don and Teresa Aultz, Wayne and Sheila Talbott, Jason Harvey, Ken and Charlotte Melda, Mike and Dawn Ferrell, Jeff and Tina Rowsey, Mark Hayes, Linda Wakeford and Amy Brown, whose friendship have grown into a bond like family. They will forever hold a cherished place in our hearts as brothers and sisters.”
Funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 14, at Morgan Funeral, Home, Lewisburg, with Pastor Ron Miller officiating. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 13, at the funeral home. Willie will be laid to rest Sunday following the service in the Green Hill Cemetery, Union, WV. The family sincerely thanks the officers and members of Lodge #1758 for their continuous support and compassion throughout this time. The family would also like to thank the officer and members of the WV Elks Association for all of their support and for making Willie’s dream to be State President a reality.
“Willie’s legacy of leadership, service, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”
Online guestbook can be signed at www.morganfh.net. Arrangements entrusted to Morgan Funeral Home, Lewisburg, WV.