Wilton Henry Hill, affectionately known to just about everyone as “Buster,” left this world on Friday, October 30, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, friendships, and a legacy of love that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Born in Greenville, South Carolina, on March 26, 1949, Buster earned his lifelong nickname honestly — mostly by falling and busting one thing or another along the way. It was a name that stuck, much like his personality: unforgettable, a little mischievous, and always full of character. 

A graduate of Easley High School's Class of 1967, Buster would tell you that the school only promoted him because they simply couldn't handle another year of mischief from the infamous Triple W gang — best friends Wilton, Walter, and Wayne. Trouble may have followed them wherever they went, but so did a friendship that became part of the stories Buster would carry with him throughout his life.

In April 1968, Buster married the love of his life, Linda Lou Houston. Soulmates from the very beginning, the two built a life together rooted in love, laughter, adventure, and an unwavering partnership. They did everything together, from traveling and making memories to cheering on their beloved Carolina Gamecocks. Since 1977, they held season tickets and watched countless games from various seats in Williams-Brice Stadium. Buster would be the first to tell you that he had watched plenty of losing over the years, but his loyalty never wavered. Win or lose, it was always, “Go Cocks!”

In 1975, Buster began working on the construction of Catawba Nuclear Station. What started as a job building the station became a decades-long career, as he remained at Catawba in various roles until his retirement on New Year's Eve 2003. Throughout those years, he earned the respect of countless colleagues and the many teams he supervised. His leadership, experience, and dedication left a lasting impression on the people fortunate enough to work alongside him.

By 1977, Buster and his family had made Fort Mill, South Carolina, their home, settling into the Willowbrook neighborhood. It was there that another chapter of his life unfolded, filled with family, neighborhood memories, and plenty of adventures. His sons, Robbie and Brad, made the woods off Sutton Road their second home — a place that undoubtedly holds more than a few stories of childhood adventures, mischief, and memories that will never be forgotten.

Buster had a special appreciation for all the “G’s” in his life: grandchildren, games at the casino, golf, cutting grass and his good ol’1970 Ford Truck. Each brought him a different kind of happiness, but nothing on this earth compared to the love he had for his grandchildren.

For the last 25 years, Buster and Linda made one thing non-negotiable: showing up for their grandchildren. It didn't matter where the game was, what time it started, or how far they had to travel. If one of their grandchildren was competing, there was a good chance Buster and Linda would be in the stands cheering them on. From high school and college graduations, show choir performances, volleyball matches, track meets to baseball, football, and lacrosse games, they rarely missed an opportunity to be present. Every grandchild held a special place in Buster's heart, and there was never any question about how much they were loved. They didn't have to wonder if PaPa was proud of them or if he would show up. They knew. His love was constant, his support unwavering, and his presence one of the greatest gifts he could give them. Those grandstands, sidelines, and countless miles traveled together created memories that his family will treasure forever. If Buster wasn’t sitting in the grandstands watching a game, he was running alongside the sidelines pulling chains with his son, Rob for the past 24 years. From Fort Mill PeeWee football league to the current season of the Fort Mill Yellow Jackets chain gang, Buster was never far from the action.

Buster was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Thelma Hill Butler, and his sister, Nancy Hill Butler, and his granddaughter Allison Hill. Left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are his adoring wife of 58 years, Linda; his sons, Rob (Nikki) and Brad (Dianne); his grandchildren, Seth, Blake, Veronica, Scarlett, and Xan; and his great-grandson, Jaxton. Buster was also very excited about the arrival of another great-grandchild, expected in March 2027.

A celebration of Buster's life will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Philadelphia United Methodist Church. In keeping with Buster's spirit, the service will be very casual, celebrating a life well lived and a man who never needed much fuss. Following the service, the family will welcome friends and loved ones in the fellowship hall to share stories, memories, laughter, and time together. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to either Philadelphia United Methodist Church or the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House. Although Buster's stay was brief, the kindness, compassion, love, and dignity shown to him and his family were immeasurable. The family will forever be grateful for the care and comfort provided during those final days.

The family would also like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the doctors, surgeons, nurses, and entire staff of Atrium Health Main Neuro ICU, as well as the palliative care team. Their care will never be forgotten.

“Let ‘er rip, Tater Chip.”

-BH