PALMER - Albert E. "Doc" Bilton, Jr., 74, of Cedar Hill St., died peacefully on Thursday, August 22 at his home surrounded by the loving care of his family. Born in E. Longmeadow, January 16, 1939, he was the son of Albert E. and Elizabeth (St. Francis) Bilton. Al grew up in E. Longmeadow, then served in the Air Force, and has lived most of his married life in Palmer. A graduate of Western New England College, he was a business major, and later obtained his CPA degree in 1977. He spent his working career at various businesses, including Coopers & Lybrand, as well as being self employed, before completing his career with City Stamp Works in Ludlow. He worked there for 12 years as their financial controller before retiring in 2004. An animal lover, Al rescued and cared for many animals, and he also enjoyed his garden. Besides his parents, his wife, Pamela (Rathbone) Bilton preceded him in death in 2007, as well as a brother Robert. He will be deeply missed by his daughter Jennifer Kirby and her husband, Shawn along with their son Cameron, all of Belchertown. He also leaves his siblings Judith Delaney of Springfield, and Richard Bilton of FL, along with his sister in law Rosalie Bilton of E. Longmeadow, mother in law Cornelia "Connie" Rathbone and brother in law Frederick Rathbone of Palmer. He also leaves many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Tuesday, August 27 at 10: 00 a.m. at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home, 1475 N. Main St, (Rte 20) followed by burial in Oak Knoll Cemetery. Calling hours are Monday from 4:00 7:00 p.m. For those wishing, please make donations in his memory to either Baystate Hospice, 50 Maple St., 01102, or Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society, PO Box 6307, Springfield, MA 01101 For more information, please visit www.beersandstory.com.