Mardel L. Hill

Mardel Hill, 91, of Green Valley, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 9:26 p.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on May 7, 1934, in Knob Noster, Missouri, to Harvey and Eva Nadine (Chalfant) Emig. On September 14, 1960, she married the love of her life, Phillip E. Hill, in Kansas City, Missouri. They shared many years of devoted marriage until his passing on November 2, 2022. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and four sisters.

Surviving to cherish her memory are two daughters; Susan (Joseph) McCormick of San Jose and Julie (Steven) Walin of Boise, Idaho; one son, Stephen (Carol) Hill of Chicago; nine beloved grandchildren; and nine treasured great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

Mardel dedicated much of her life to caring for others. She worked for several years as a Registered Nurse at Kansas City General Hospital, later serving as the bookkeeper for the family business, Hill Brothers Aviation, and continued her compassionate service by working in and volunteering at nursing homes. She also gave generously of her time as a Girl Scout leader, guiding and encouraging young lives with patience and kindness.

In her quieter moments, Mardel found joy in bird watching, gardening, crafting, cooking and reading her Bible. She loved working crossword puzzles, visiting those in the hospital, and extending warm hospitality to everyone she met. Her home was a place of comfort, kindness, and welcome.

A faithful Christian, Mardel’s deep love for her Lord and Savior was evident in the way she lived each day. She was a longtime member of New Testament Missionary Baptist Church in Pekin, where she worshiped faithfully, served wholeheartedly, and found great joy in fellowship. She was also a past member of the Green Valley Woman’s Club.

Above all else, Mardel cherished her family. She consistently placed their needs before her own, offering unwavering support, grace, and love. Her life was marked by quiet strength, selflessness, and a gentle spirit that touched everyone who knew her.

A Memorial Service celebrating Mardel’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory, 2131 Velde Drive, Pekin. Visitation will take place one hour prior, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., also at the funeral home. Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the family with arrangements.

Mardel’s legacy of faith, devotion to family, and compassionate service will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.