James M. Hylton

James Michael (Mickey) Hylton, 57, of Bates City, Missouri passed away unexpectedly on October 11th, just hours after the passing of his mother. Mickey had numerous health issues but we think he just died of a broken heart.

Mickey was born in 1962 in Kansas City, Missouri to Edward and Sarah (Ellis) Hylton. He was their second child. Mickey graduated from Northeast High School in 1981, and entered the Navy shortly thereafter. He served as a Fireman on a ship, and served 4 years active and 4 years inactive. He was very proud of his military service, and referenced it the rest of his life. He had numerous medals and commendations, but he was especially proud of his role in the Falklands and his role in Grenada.

After his separation from the Navy, he came back to Missouri and Kansas, He worked as an Operating Engineer for over 30 years. He was certified in HVAC, Diesel Mechanics, and a sundry of other trades.

Mickey was beloved by all the members of his family, which is beyond huge. He always wanted to be up in the middle of a group telling a story, and flapping his hands. He felt it his duty to entertain EVERYONE he met, whether it be family, friends, or complete strangers. If someone didn’t go away laughing, he felt he had failed in his mission. Mickey was a fan of country music and old rock. He was a fanatical dancer. He loved singing and was always looking for an audience… no matter where he was.

Mickey is survived by his father Edward Hylton, Sr. of Bates City Missouri, his sister Vicki (Gary) Briles of Blue Springs, Missouri, their children and grandchildren, his sister Trisha (John) Parker of St. Joseph, Missouri and their children. He is lastly survived by his brother Edward (Marie) Hylton of Independence, Missouri and Marie’s brother… who Mickey viewed as his brother. He was preceded in death by his mother Sarah Ellis and both sets of paternal and maternal grandparents. Mickey is survived by almost 200 first and second cousins. He was fiercely loyal to friends and family. His last words to our mother was “Mom you go ahead and go now… I’m going to be close behind you… I’ll Love you forever”. I think he just couldn’t face life with her gone, and just stopped breathing.

Visitation 10AM, services 11AM, Saturday, October 17 at The Life Church, 10400 View High Dr., Kansas City, MO; burial in Green Lawn Cemetery.

Visitation 10AM, services 11AM, Saturday, October 17 at The Life Church, 10400 View High Dr., Kansas City, MO; burial in Green Lawn Cemetery.