Obituary: Jean D. Grills (nee Hungerford)

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory​.

Jean D. Grills

(nee Hungerford)

Jean D. Grills, age 92, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born in Maywood, Illinois, on May 31, 1934, the daughter of the late Glenn and Isabel (nee Billings) Hungerford. Jean grew up in Countryside and was a graduate of Lyons Township High School.

Jean devoted much of her life to being a homemaker, caring for her family and creating lasting memories with those she loved. Later in life, she put her skills to work as a bookkeeper for Remax Realty. Known for her strong-willed personality and determination, Jean had a spirit all her own and was never afraid to stand her ground.

Family was at the center of Jean’s life, especially her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished spending time with them and loved being active alongside them, whether enjoying the outdoors, spending time on the water, or simply making memories together. Summers in Wisconsin held a special place in her heart, offering opportunities to relax and enjoy the people and activities she loved most.

A diehard Chicago Cubs fan, Jean enjoyed cheering on her favorite team. She also liked watching game shows, finding enjoyment in the simple pleasures of everyday life.

Jean will be remembered for her strong personality, her love for her family, and the many special memories she created with those closest to her. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Jean is survived by her children, Donna (the late Donald) Strange, Kelly (Diane) Grills, Mark Grills, and Timothy (Lisa) Grills; grandchildren, Stefanie (Andrew) Joyner, Amy (Deon Kriel) Strange, April (Chris) Stein, Fern (Harrison) McGillen, and Emily (Brendan) Edwards; great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Luke, and Jackson Stein, and Max Joyner; daughter-in-law, Joan Grills; her siblings, Jim (the late Diane) Hungerford and Jan (Tim) Corcoran; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She is preceded by her husband, Cletus A. Grills; one grandson, Jason Grills; and her siblings, John Hungerford, Joyce Hungerford, Jeraldine Kolack, and Jacqueline Green.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to Alzheimer’s Association.

As it was Jean’s request, cremation rites have been accorded and inurnment will take place privately by the family at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.

For more information, please call the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home at 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.

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