Ila Louise Stillings

The book of life of Ila Louise Stillings came to an end on April 19, 2025, at Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare, Ava, Missouri, with her family by her side.  Her book began on October 6, 1933, when Ila was born to parents Bailey and Iva (Robertson) Ludwig, in Ava, Missouri.

Pages were added to Ila’s book with all the friends she made during the 17 years she worked at Emerson Electric.  Her book was enhanced by all the wonderful paintings and projects Ila did by refurbishing all sorts of objects, from Prince Albert cans to coffee pots.

Other pages were added to Ila’s book with the many hours she spent watching Nascar; she was an avid race fan, recording most of the races, and especially loved watching Dale Earnhardt. The pages of Ila’s life were greatly influenced by her love of reading and books.  She would spend many hours lost in a world of books, and at one time had many shelves full of books.  In all her years, her story was enriched by many beautiful chapters of her love of family and church.

Ila was preceded in death by her parents, all of her siblings, Wilda, Virginia, Larry, Mary, Annette, and Aloma.  Her soulmate of 38 years, Thomas Boak. Also preceding her in death was the father of her daughters, Benny Stillings.
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Left to continue the story of Ila’s life is her daughters, Kathryn Pierce and Kimberly Stamper, and 5 grandchildren: Jedediah, Jesse-Ben, Katchina, Marla, and Tyler. Surviving in-laws are Lawrence Ray and Eva Stillings, Norma Stillings, and Mary Lou Ludwig. 

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Ava City Cemetery, starting at 2:00 PM.   Ila’s sister-in-law Norma Stillings will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New Hope Freewill Baptist Church.