Helen Sue Hill

Helen Sue (Spires) Hill, age 89, of West Peoria, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026. She was born on December 27, 1936, in Ramsey, Illinois, to the late Robert and Dorothy (Broyles) Spires.

On September 9, 1956, Helen married the love of her life, Philip “Frank” Hill, in Springfield. They shared 43 years of marriage before Frank’s passing on September 9, 1999.

Helen is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth (Bruce) Beringer of West Peoria; three granddaughters, Sarah (Klynt) Diefenderfer of Washington, Illinois, Emily (Jake Smalley) Ross of Peoria, Illinois, and Laura (Andrew) Conrad of Pekin, Illinois; ten great‑grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to her life; a niece, Nancy (Glenn) Beecher; of Minneapolis, Minnesota; and other relatives and friends. She is further survived by her best friend of 86 years, Ruth Swaringen, whose lifelong friendship was a treasured blessing. She was preceded in death by a brother, James Spires; a sister-in-law, Dorothy "Pat" Spires; and a nephew, James Spires.

Helen was a longtime member of Woodland Baptist Church in Peoria, where she found fellowship. She will be remembered for the deep love she held for her family. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to the Woodland Baptist Church or to the Alzheimer’s Association.