Elizabeth A. Hills

Elizabeth A. Hills, age 82, of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on July 13, 1943, in Niles, Michigan, to Elmer Cleveland Cole and Doris Edith (Baldwin) Cole, Elizabeth brought joy, humor, and an abundance of love to all who knew her.

Elizabeth married the love of her life, John Heber Hills, on April 6, 1968. Their love and partnership endured until John's passing on July 9, 2001. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support for their family. Her life was forever touched by their shared years together.

Affectionately known to many simply as "Liz" or "Mom," Elizabeth was a woman of strong character, boundless generosity, and an unmistakable sparkle in her eye. She had an infectious laugh, often triggered by a well-timed corny joke or the playful banter between her daughters pretending to bicker, which never failed to send her into eye rolling with a smile. She had a warmth that filled any room and a with that kept everyone on their toes.

Elizabeth found deep joy in the simple pleasures of life: the scent of fresh lilacs in her yard, the satisfaction of a freshly mowed lawn, or the sweet indulgence of a homemade dessert (which she never turned down). She had a nurturing spirit, which was evident not only in the way she cared for others. She loved her collection of knick-knacks she gathered over the years, each with a story or memory attached.

If something broke, Elizabeth didn't panic, she reached for her trusty duct tape. In her hands, duct tape wasn't just a tool, it was a solution, a strategy, and sometimes even an art form. She had a practical, resourceful side that was balanced beautifully by her sentimental, loving nature.

But above all, Elizabeth's greatest passion and purpose in life was caring for her children. Being a mother, and later a grandmother, was her proudest role. Her children and grandchildren were her world, and she showed her love for them in countless ways: through warm meals, thoughtful conversations, encouraging words, and simply being present. Her best memories, she would often say, were the shopping trips she took with her kids. Whether browsing shelves or sharing laughs in the car, these were moments of pure happiness for her.

She was ornery in the best way, playfully stubborn, with a sly sense of humor, but always kind-hearted and giving. She gave freely of herself to others, often putting the needs of her loved ones ahead of her own without hesitation. A phone call with her children was part of her daily rhythm, those conversations were sacred to her, and those who knew her will always remember how much those moments meant.

Elizabeth will be remembered for her radiant smile, her giving spirit, and her unwavering love for her family. She was a good mother, a proud grandmother, and a true. Her legacy is one of love, laughter, and selfless devotion.

We all love you, Mom. Thank you for raising us with patience, humor, and heart. Your love was the foundation of our lives, and we will carry your memory with us always.

Elizabeth is preceded in death by her beloved husband John, her parents Elmer and Doris Cole, her dear son Daniel Hills, and her sister Patricia Strampel.

She is lovingly survived by her daughters: Tammy (James) Whitmer, Cheryl (Michael) Espick, and Christina (Brian) Lannan; and her cherished grandchildren: Chad Lannan, Brad Lannan, Tanner Whitmer, and Autumn Espick, who will forever carry her love in their hearts. She is also survived by her nephew, Scott Strampel who were touched by her generosity and warmth.

A private gathering of family and close friends will be held at a later date to celebrate her life and the beautiful impact she had on all of us.

To leave a message for the family, please go to ChapelHillMemorial.com