Audrey L Hill

1951 - 2025

Audrey L. Hill of Independence, Iowa entered her eternal rest on November 15, 2025 after a brief illness. She was born on April 5, 1951 in Waterloo, IA, the daughter of Walter Happel and Eleanora (Musch) Happel. Her childhood was a happy one centered around Immanuel Lutheran Church and school in Waterloo, IA, the YWCA, and cousins.

A graduate of West Waterloo, Audrey went on to attend Luther College in Decorah, IA. Graduating with a major in elementary education, Audrey taught for 36 years, 34 of those years in the Independence, IA Community School District. She taught Title 1 and second grade.

It was at Luther that Audrey also met Robert E. Hill, her future husband. They were married on May 26, 1973, one week after their college graduation. Their marriage was built on faith, love, friendship, trust, and humor.

After settling in Independence, IA, in 1975, Bob and Audrey raised three lovely and successful daughters--Elizabeth Aslin (Travis), Erin Phillips (Nick), and Laura Hill. In later years, their grandchildren Taylor, Trent, Peyton, Addison, and Caitlin spent many happy times with them at their home in Independence.

Audrey's focus in her early adult years was raising her daughters, being involved in their activities (teaching Sunday School, being a Confirmation Guide, assisting a 4H club, attending games and events . . .) and teaching. As time went on, she focused on supporting Bob in his many endeavors and in volunteering-church boards, committees and organizations at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Independence, the BCHC gift shop, One Book One Independence, Friends of the Library book sales, and the Historical Society Cookie Walkz.

In later years Audrey's priorities were her family, P.E.O. (serving in several offices, including president) and serving on the school board. She enjoyed reading, binge-watching TV series, watching General Hospital (a fan since it premiered in 1963!), utilizing her interior design aptitude, and playing bridge.

Surviving family members include daughters Elizabeth, Erin, and Laura; sons-in-law, Travis & Nick; and five grandchildren Taylor, Trent, Peyton, Addison, and Caitlin.

Preceding Audrey in death were her parents; Bob, her husband of 49 years; and many cousins.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Visitation will take place on Thursday, November 20, 2025 from 4-7 PM at Reiff Family Center – Funeral Home & Crematory in Independence, Iowa.

Arrangements with Reiff and Immanuel in Cedar Falls.