Sandra June Wickett Hilton, daughter of Richard Rudolph and Wava Pauline (Proudfoot) Wickett was born November 7, 1936. She passed away from this life on Dec. 10, 2023. Sandra graduated as the valedictorian of New Virginia High School’s class of 1955.
Sandra moved to Indianola with lifelong friend, Mary Jean (Keller) Hatcher. Sandra accepted Jesus as her savior many years ago and that is why we know she is in heaven with her Savior. (Romans 10:9-13) What a difference this decision made in her life. On a cold February 14th, 1960, she married Gerald “Jerry” Francis Hilton. They lived in Des Moines. April 1, 1961, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. September 17th their son Bradley Francis was born, he never came home from the hospital and passed away a week later. In 1962 they moved back to New Virginia to the home Sandra lived in as a toddler. From 1964-1975 they owned ½ the NV Hardware. In 1967, Stephanie Dawn joined the family.
Sandra was an active member of the Evangelical Free Church of New Virginia which later became Grace Baptist Church. In 1972 she left the hardware store and became a stay-at-home mother. She was a very loving and caring wife and mother. Sandra loved her grandchildren and enjoyed any opportunity she had to be with them. She wanted to be with them more, but her physical limitations prevented her from doing so. One thing that wasn’t limited by MS was praying for them.
Jerry and Sandra liked to travel around Iowa and the United States. Jerry preceded her in death in 2005. In October of 2005 she moved to Osceola Nursing & Rehab and later to Southern Hill Specialty Care, when the new building was built. She enjoyed the many activities at the care center and over the years she became a favorite of the staff.
Preceding Sandra in death were Jerry & Bradley; Richard & Wava Wickett; Evadna (Paul) Keller, sister-in-laws: Billie Lou Davidson and Barbara (Jake) Kimzey.
She leaves to cherish her memory daughter Stephanie (Terry) Bundt of Leon; grandsons, Brogan Bundt of Lamoni, Ethan Bundt of Leon, granddaughter, Leighanna Bundt of Leon; brother-in-law, Steve (Christine) Hilton of Indianola; sister-in-law, Lynn (Charlie) Long of Indianola; her sister’s children Jack (Sharon) Keller & Paula (Tim) Williams of Indianola and Richard Keller of New Virginia; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Services were at Kale Funeral Home in Osceola, Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, at 10:00 am. Interment was at the new Virginia Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to her family to establish a fitting tribute in her honor. Online condolences can be directed to the family at www.kalefuneralhome.com.
Sandra June Hilton’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. May her inspiring life serve as a reminder to us all to embrace love, cherish our loved ones, and make a positive impact in the world around us.