Elizabeth “Jill” Heller

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Elizabeth “Jill” Ruth Heller, 80, of Belleville, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 18, 2020 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

Jill was born in Murphysboro, IL, and was active in her Catholic faith. She was educated at St. Andrew School, Murphysboro High School, and earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in both English and Psychology at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. After completing her studies, Jill was employed as an educator for more than 30 years in Business at both East High School and Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, IL.

Jill was active in many organizations, including St. Peter’s Cathedral, the University Women’s Club, and PEO HR chapter. She was an avid card player, belonged to numerous bridge clubs, and participated in book clubs and Bible studies. Jill embraced new opportunities to expand her social network and was always ready for an adventure. Her positive spirit, optimistic outlook, quick wit, and bright smile were contagious. She treasured time spent with family creating memories.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Jack R. Heller; parents, John T. and Elizabeth R. Blankinship; niece, Suzanne Miller; and brother-in-law, Monty Miller.

Jill was a devoted mother to Jack (Malea) Heller and Beth (Craig) Ball;
loving grandmother of Jack, Lucy, Molly, and Libby Heller, and Alivia Ball;
dear sister of Cynthia Katsafanas and Jack (Sherri) Blankinship;
dear sister-in-law of Betty Miller;
beloved aunt, cousin, and friend to many.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to the American Diabetes Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation: Friends may visit from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, February 24, 2020, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.

Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:15 a.m. Tuesday, February 25, 2020, at The Esquiline, 726 Community Drive, the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, Belleville, IL.

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10 Comments on Elizabeth “Jill” Heller

margie schwartz said : Guest Report Mar 03, 2020 at 2:51 AM

I am so sorry I was not able to personally express my sympathy to you, Beth and Jack, and your families. Your Mom was a very dear friend, as you know, for so many years. She and I had so many happy times together as you two were growing up. I will always remember her dear smile and wonderful personality. My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you. Margie Schwartz

  • belleville
  • il
Kyle CLARK said : Guest Report Feb 27, 2020 at 11:07 PM

To Beth I am so sorry to have heard about the loss of your Mom. she was such a neat lady to know! you are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time you sure had a special Mom!!!

  • Swansea
  • Illinois
Jack Lintz said : Guest Report Feb 25, 2020 at 5:05 AM

Jack & Beth, you have my condolences. It’s difficult to accept the death of a family member, especially your mother. Marlene was at the Shrine only a few days before she passed. I did have the pleasure of talking with Jill for a few minutes. You both have my thoughts and prayers. Maybe Marlene and Jill will cross paths and rekindle their friendship. Jack Lintz

  • Belleville
  • Il
Nancy and Lew Laughlin said : Guest Report Feb 25, 2020 at 2:15 AM

Fly high on Angel wings, our dear Jilly Bean. You were loved and will be so missed. Our sincere sympathy to Beth and Jack and their families. You and Jack gave them wonderful memories to hang on to. ?

  • Las Vegas
  • NV
Mike & Laura Lueken said : Guest Report Feb 24, 2020 at 4:42 PM

Jack, God Bless you and yours. YBIC

  • Kirkwood
  • MO
Michael Richmond said : Guest Report Feb 24, 2020 at 3:41 PM

Cynthia, my sincerest condolences for the loss of you sister. Prayers for you and your family.

  • Glendale
  • MO
Gloria Rippelmeyer,Wandless said : Guest Report Feb 22, 2020 at 5:09 AM

I'm sorry for your loss. Jill was always a sweetheart in high school. Snappy cheerleader.

  • ST LOUIS
  • MO
Monsignor John Myler said : Guest Report Feb 21, 2020 at 6:49 PM

I am our of town this week -- but so sorry to hear of Mrs. Heller's death. We will pray for her at Masses this Sunday -- and for Jack and for all the Heller family. My sincere sympathy.

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Ruth Leech said : Guest Report Feb 21, 2020 at 6:06 AM

My condolences to Beth's family and Jack's family on the passing of your Mother.

  • Fairview Heights
  • Illinois
Wanda K said : Guest Report Feb 20, 2020 at 4:20 PM

All my thoughts go out to you and your family.

  • Kirkwood
  • MO

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