Gertrude "Gertie" L. Lill

Gertrude "Gertie" L. Lill, age 91, late of Palos Heights, IL, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2026.

Gertie was a woman who found joy in learning, teaching, and the people she surrounded herself with. She spent most of her life as a grammar schoolteacher, a career she took great pride in and one that allowed her to make a lasting impact on the many students she taught. Her love of books and learning continued throughout her life, and after retiring from teaching, she became a librarian at the Tinley Park Public Library, where she continued to share her love of reading and knowledge with others. She also had a special love for her Diet Coke, a simple favorite that was just one of the little things that made her uniquely Gertie.

Gertie was blessed with many wonderful friendships throughout her years and treasured the people who became a part of her life. Above all, though, her family held a special place in her heart. She especially cherished spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating memories and enjoying the simple moments together. Her love, kindness, and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Loving mother of John Wilkes and Judith (Tim) McKinsey. Cherished grandmother of Taylor Wilkes, Hannah Wilkes, Molly McKinsey, Max McKinsey, and Mason McKinsey. Cherished great-grandmother of Kiley, Paige, and Oliver. Caring sister of the late Tom (late Joan) Pendergast, the late Dorothy (late Albin) Yokie, and the late Francis (Barbara) Pendergast. Dear daughter of the late Francis and late Lillian Pendergast. Kind aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Gertie will be remembered for her love of learning, her dedication to teaching, her friendships, and most importantly, the love she gave to her family. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will be treasured by those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Memorial Visitation, Friday, October 9, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 17248 S. Harlem Ave. Tinley Park, IL 60477. Memorial Service, Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 17248 S. Harlem Ave. Tinley Park, IL 60477. Interment will be Private. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. For more information (708) 532-1635 or www.vandenbergfuneralhome.com