Jeanette L. Hilton

Jeanette Love Hilton, age 69, of Omaha passed away peacefully on April 29, 2024 at the Josie Harper Hospice House. Jeanette was born on February 18, 1955 in Washington, Kansas to her parents John E. Hilton and Phyllis C. (Lamb) Hilton.

As a child, Jeanette was bookish and shy. She grew up in South Omaha with her brothers, John and Jim. Together, they spent many summers in Blue Rapids, Kansas with her extended family and cousins. Her favorite memories of childhood include swinging on the swings, making mud pies, Christmas celebrations in Blue Rapids, and playing with her dog, Maggie.

Jeanette attended St. Paul VI High School and graduated in 1973. As a student, she excelled in English and art. The most influential teacher she had was Sister Carol, who encouraged her to be active in speech and theater classes. Despite her shy nature, she won several awards and ribbons for her exceptional performances.

Jeanette obtained a bachelor's degree in Library Science from Creighton University. Initially, she had considered pursuing a degree in secondary education, but she switched majors after working at the public library in her early college years. For several decades, she worked as a library assistant at Creighton University before retiring in 2021.

In her down time, Jeanette fiercely loved reading, especially "cozy mystery novels." She was also a talented seamstress; she sewed clothes for baby dolls and embroidered innumerable tea towels, pillowcases, and dresser scarves for her friends and family. She kept in touch with family and friends by writing them letters, and she mailed cards for every holiday. She was active in the parish of St. James Catholic Church, where she was extremely giving of her time and talents.

According to Jeanette, the happiest moment of her life was the birth of her first nephew, John J. Hilton. Jeanette was an extremely devoted aunt to us (and, later, her great-niece). She was there for every birthday party, graduation, Eagle Scout Court of Honor, wedding, and milestone. For many years, she and Phyllis would watch us at their apartment on Saturdays, where we would paint and play with Legos and Barbies. She took us to the movies, the children's museum, and fast-food restaurants. In many ways, she influenced the people we would grow to be -- John, Joe, Anthony, and Matt grew up to be mechanically-inclined, innovative men, and Mary grew up to be a lover of art and fashion.

In Jeanette's own words, the most important lesson she has learned in her life is to "get back up every time you get knocked down." The wisdom she wants to pass on to others is simply, "Don't be afraid to try new things or reach beyond your limits, and never think you have to settle."

Her kindness, creativity, warmth, and generosity will be sorely missed, but she lives on in the hearts of all who had the opportunity to know and love her.

She is preceded in death by parents, John and Phyllis Hilton; and brother, John W. Hilton.

Those left to cherish Jeanette's memory include her brother, Jim (Barb) Hilton; nephews, John (Hannah), Joe (Jessica), Anthony, and Matthew; niece, Mary; great-niece, Lucy; and a host of other loving family and friends.

Memorial Mass 10:00 AM Thursday (5/2/2024) at St. James Catholic Church 9025 Larimore Ave. Omaha, Nebraska.

Roeder Mortuary, Inc. - 108th Street Chapel

2727 N 108th St - Omaha, NE - 402-496-9000

www.RoederMortuary.com