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Centralia Today
By the People, for the People
Centralia Community Mourns Passing of April Jo Heitman
Beloved CNA and devoted mother remembered for her kindness and vibrant spirit
Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:36am
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The vibrant memory of April Jo Heitman's joyful spirit will continue to inspire her Centralia community.Centralia TodayApril Jo Heitman, a 43-year-old Certified Nursing Assistant from Centralia, Illinois, passed away on March 26, 2026. She is survived by her husband Ian, her parents, her children, and other close family members. April was known for her compassionate care of nursing home residents, her strong faith, and her loving relationships with family and friends.
Why it matters
April's passing is deeply felt by the close-knit Centralia community, where she was a beloved figure for her decades of service as a CNA and her active involvement in her local Baptist church. Her life story highlights the importance of compassionate caregivers and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of life's challenges.
The details
April Jo Heitman was born on November 8, 1982 in Centralia, Illinois. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Fireside Nursing Home for 13 years, where she was known for her dedication to caring for the residents. April was also a devoted member of the Bakers Street Baptist Church, where she found strength in her faith. She is survived by her husband Ian, her parents Edward and Louise, her children Liliauna, Mariah, Dustin, Justice, and Aidan, and other close family members.
- April Jo Heitman passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
- A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Baker Street Baptist Church in Centralia.
The players
April Jo Heitman
A 43-year-old Certified Nursing Assistant from Centralia, Illinois who passed away on March 26, 2026. She was known for her compassionate care of nursing home residents, her strong faith, and her loving relationships with family and friends.
Ian Heitman
The loving husband of April Jo Heitman.
Edward Clem Bounds III
The father of April Jo Heitman.
Louise (Wood) Bounds
The mother of April Jo Heitman.
Jessica Dehn
April Jo Heitman's best friend who stood by her side through all seasons of her life.
What’s next
The Heitman family will be accepting donations in April's memory, which can be made through the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia.
The takeaway
April Jo Heitman's life story serves as an inspiring example of the power of compassion, faith, and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Her legacy will continue to live on through the lives she touched as a dedicated caregiver and beloved member of the Centralia community.
