L. Elaine Hilmes

L. Elaine Hilmes, aged 66, born on June 29, 1958, passed away on June 19, 2025, at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in O'Fallon.

Elaine retired during the COVID pandemic to help care for her four beloved grandchildren, who were the center of her world. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including her five cherished dogs, the Florida ocean, gardening, nature, shopping, and family gatherings, particularly those filled with Mexican dinners.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Thomas and Mabel Edrie (nee Lindsey) Wells; and her siblings: Edrie Gruelle, Mary Brock, Sue Sullivan, Sammy Wells, Nellie Palmer, Josephine Hewitt, and Tommy Wells.

Elaine leaves behind her loving children, Charity (Roger) Fuehne from Xenia and Heather (Justin) Florczyk from Trenton, as well as her four wonderful grandchildren: Savannah and Landen Fuehne, and Aubrey and Amsey Florczyk. Additionally, she is survived by a large family of brothers and sisters: Sarah (Darrell) Huegen of Carlyle, Mark (Donna) Wells of O'Fallon, Jackie (Donald) Arban of Carlyle, David Wells of Carlyle, Danny Wells of Tunnel Hill, Betty Wells Wininger of Idaho, and Shirley Wells Lyons of Kansas; as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family expresses their heartfelt thanks to the Sugar Creek Ambulance for their prompt response and efforts.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, June 30, 2025 at the Carlyle Christian Church with Pastor Josh Wolford officiating.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 until 10:00 AM on Monday, June 30, 2025 at the Carlyle Christian Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Clinton County Humane Society, honoring Elaine's love for animals and will be received at church or at Nordike Funeral Home, 740 Fairfax Street, Carlyle, IL 62231.