Ila’s career was marked by her compassion and commitment to helping others. She worked as a store clerk at Rayburns Rexall Drug in Cambridge, NE and then later as a home health aide in Riverton, WY. For the past 10 years, she took great pride in running the general store while living at The Lexington in Lincoln.
An avid reader who often said, “Books are my best friends,” Ila found joy in baking Christmas cookies with her grandchildren, sewing, quilting, and even listening to rock music. Her passion for genealogy and her dedication to her family were evident in all she did. In recognition of her contributions to The Lexington, Ila was honored with the State of Nebraska 2024 Assisted Living Resident of the Year award.
Ila is survived by her sons, Bruce (Julie) Dragoo and David (Kristy) Dragoo; her grandchildren, Jessica (Jarred) Rowe, Nathaly, Malorie, and Drake Dragoo; and her two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Vivian “Bee,” Lois, and Ardith.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Earl Dragoo, her brothers Leon and Rod, and her infant sister Donna.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 pm on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Roper and Sons South Lincoln Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive. Internment will take place on a later date at Ft. McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell, NE.
Memorials may be made to the Lincoln Public Library Fund.