Narvella "Bella" Jean Hiltabrand

Narvella Jean “Bella” Hiltabrand, 89, of Tonica, passed away on January 21, 2026 in her home at peace. 

Cremation rites have been accorded. Outdoor burial services and a celebration of her life will be held in June 2026 and will be announced at a later date.

Bella was born on Sunday, December 6, 1936, in a home outside of LeRoy, to Walter and Mildred (Dye) McDowell. On December 31, 1954, she married Jerry C. Hiltabrand, beginning a partnership of love and hard work that lasted a lifetime. Together, they owned and operated Hiltabrand Garage in Tonica for over 40 plus years, serving their community until their retirement.

Bella was a strength in the Tonica community, dedicating over 31 years of service to the Tonica Volunteer Fire Department from 1979 to 2010. A leader in local emergency services, she served as the ambulance administrator from 1993 until 2002 and shared her life-saving knowledge with others as a Certified CPR Instructor.

While she was known for her service to the public, her family knew her as a devoted mother and grandmother. Her most precious memories were the quiet moments spent fishing with her grandchildren.  

She is survived by her three children: Ronnie R. Hiltabrand of Magnolia, Rickey L. Hiltabrand of Princeton, and Jeri Lynn Hiltabrand of Tonica; six grandchildren: Jeremy Hiltabrand, Adam (Melissa Eide) Hiltabrand, Lindsey McCloud, Erica (Adam) Boggio, and Kyle Lawless; and five beloved great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, M. Joyce Lund of Tonica; and her nephew and niece, Barry (Tina) Lund and Brenda Lund.

Bella was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jerry; one grandson, Jerad Hiltabrand; her brother-in-law, Arthur Lund Jr.; and her nephew, Brian Lund.

Per Bella’s wishes, no donations or gifts are requested at this time.

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