Frances A. Heilman

Frances Adelia (McGill) Heilman, beloved sister, mother, grandmother, and aunt, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 23, 2024. A sometimes devout Catholic, Frances incorporated what she considered to be the very best aspects of various faiths to create a relationship with God that was uniquely her own— “Catholic-lite,” she called it.  She firmly believed that this world was only one “village” and that in leaving us she was simply moving on to the next one.

Frances lived a life marked by her feisty arguments with the Lord, boundless love, and a deep commitment to her family.  Her nurturing spirit extended to her treasured cats, Eek and Cherry, who brought her joy and companionship.  An avid reader, Frances devoured books of all kinds and became one of the most intelligent conversationalists you’d ever want to meet.  Her curiosity was boundless, and she loved sharing the solace and inspiration she found in the pages of her many books with others. 

Frances believed strongly in personal freedom tempered by responsibility, and in holding people in authority accountable.  She raised her children to do the same, but may have regretted that when she was the authority in question.

Frances is survived by her husband, a sister and brother, her children, her grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and a host of other family members and friends who will remember her for her wisdom, independence, and loyalty.  She was a beautiful soul who will be missed beyond words.  We all hope her next village has plenty of strong coffee, lots of chocolate, lemon drops, crispy bacon, oranges, kitty cats, and all the books that have ever been or will be written.  We love you, Mom.

A celebration of her extraordinary life will be planned for some time next year.  In place of flowers, we request that you honor her by donating to the Dubuque County Library – Asbury Branch, your local library, the Humane Society, or St. Vincent de Paul.

Online condolences for Frances’ family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com