Rosella M’Lee Hillbrant, 74, Iola, died Wednesday, June 23, 2010, at the Allen County Hospital.

Rosella was born Dec. 9, 1935, in Stark, the daughter of O.M. and Elma McCormick Dunham. She graduated from Grant High School in Stark in 1953. She then graduated from Neosho County Community College and Pittsburg State University with a degree in elementary education. She taught school in numerous communities over the years.

On Nov. 6, 1964, Rosella married Lester L. Hillbrant. They lived in Iola until 1969 when they moved to Olathe. In 1979 they returned to Iola to make their home.

She was active in 4-H activities and was a member of the Stark United Methodist Church.

Survivors include her husband, Lester Hillbrant, of the home; two daughters, Leann Buethner and husband, Matt, Augusta, and Rhonda Nash and husband, Dale, Carney, Mo.; a brother, J.R. “Dick” Dunham, Manhattan; three grandchildren, Rachel and Michelle Nash and Karleigh Buethner.

Funeral will be 11 a.m. Saturday, June 26 at the Stark United Methodist Church. Visitation is 7 to 8 this evening at Waugh-Yokum & Friskel Chapel in Iola.

Cremation will follow the service.

Memorials are suggested to Stark United Methodist Church and may be left with the funeral home.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.iolafuneral.com.