Mrs. Hilgard was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, the daughter of James and Dorothy, nee Gerhardt, Irons. She married Richard W. Hilgard in 1949.
Nancy graduated from East Side High School in East St. Louis, IL, and worked at a law office until her marriage. She was then a full-time homemaker, mother, and supportive spouse to her husband Dick, in his many civic and business matters. She enjoyed her family, nieces and nephews, and many friends, socializing and hostessing a lifetime of nearly every weekend gatherings.
She was a Memorial Hospital Auxiliary member, and a member of the First Presbyterian Church. She also volunteered at Belleville East High School library in her later years.
She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; and her brother, James H. (Claire) Irons.
Surviving are her two sons, Richard W. Hilgard Jr., and James H. (Jennifer) Hilgard;
five grandchildren, Jamie Gine, Katie Hilgard, Joseph Hilgard, Anna Hilgard, and Timothy Hilgard;
and two great-grandchildren, Ava and Preston Gine.
Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, April 14, 2018, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 14, 2018, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Rev. Robert Dyer officiating.