Elaine Marie Hildebrant, age 81, of Blue Springs, Missouri, passed away on April 22, 2026, at Ignite Medical Resort St. Mary’s, where she had been a resident.
Elaine was born on July 13, 1944, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Wayne and Sylvia Kilbourne. In her younger years, Elaine loved riding and caring for horses, wearing fun jewelry and clothing, going out dancing, and truly living life to the fullest. She worked as a line worker at Peterson Manufacturing and later retired from Bendix (now known as Honeywell).
Elaine cherished time spent with her family, especially during holidays, and loved being surrounded by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In her later years, she found joy in crocheting, creating many projects while spending time with her husband, James, and their beloved bird, Cesar.
She was a lover of music and often surprised those around her by knowing the lyrics to the most unexpected songs—sometimes adding a little dance along the way. She was also a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan and loved cheering them on.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James; her son, Joe Ryan; her grandson, Robert Joseph Ziegler; her nephew, Larry Weingartner; and her beloved bird, Cesar.
She is survived by her granddaughter and caregiver, Monica (Dan) Vallenavedo; grandsons Brendon, Jacob, and Zachary Ryan; great-grandsons Steven and Andrew Vallenavedo; her sisters, Linda Weingartner and Ariana Reeder; and her nieces, Janette and Charlotte Weingartner.
The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Pamela Magruder for the care and support she provided in Elaine’s final months.
Elaine will be cremated. No services are scheduled at this time.
Obituary submitted by the family.
Arrangements by Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, Missouri