Clara Hilda Breckner Heilmeier

Clara Hilda Breckner Heilmeier, 98 years old, of Foley, Al. passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 surrounded by her five loving children.

Clara was born on February 14, 1927, a true Valentine to all who knew her. Clara was born to Ernest Otto Breckner and Hilda Rosa Daniel Breckner. She was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband of 37 years, (Jack) John Jacob Heilmeier, Jr. , her brother Carl Breckner, her second husband Max Harris, and her great granddaughter Cassidy Meadows of Auburn, Al.

Clara was born in Foley in the farm house she grew up in. Her parents were immigrants from Europe and met at church. She grew up helping on the farm where there were lots of farm animals to tend to. She helped harvest crops from the fields, but she loved to read. So, she would sneak away and get lost in her books. Clara came home from school each day and taught English to her parents.

Clara married Jack Heilmeier on August 17, 1947. They bought the Motor Inn service station where they sold gas, groceries, and the coldest beer in town. She helped Dad run the business until they sold it in the early eighties and retired.

Clara also had a full time job as the mother of five active children. She made sure they had a Christian upbringing by attending church and Sunday School.

Clara was an active member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Foley. She was also an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary for over 60 years, She was a member of the Foley Home Demonstration Club where she was helpful in the beginning of the South Baldwin Hospital. Clara was a member of the international sorority, Beta Sigma Phi. She loved to travel so she helped start the Foley Senior Travel Club.

Clara sewed most of our clothes, including prom dresses! She loved quilting. Clara could draw and paint. Her house was full of her artwork. Most of all Clara loved her family and friends. She loved gatherings where everyone came together to eat and enjoy conversation.

Clara was loving, forgiving, and always truly thankful for everything!

Clara was survived by her five children: Terry Heilmeier (Pam), Jacque Mixon (Walter), Susan King (Teddy), Dr. John Heilmeier (Babbie), Karen Mann (Bill)

Grandchildren: Brian Mixon, Dr. Shelley King McIntire (Henry), Melissa King Haupt (Charlie), Ashley King, Zack Mann, Jeb Mann (Deborah)

Great-grandchildren: Peyton Haupt, Bryce Haupt, Holden McIntire, Bennett McIntire, Cooper Mann, Everett Mann

To honor Clara's memory, donations, in lieu of flowers, can be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Foley, AL. 

"Cherish those you have in your life... because you never know when God will want them back."

FUNERAL SERVICES WILL BE HELD AT ST. PAUL'S LUTHERAN CHURCH IN FOLEY ON MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2025.

VISITATION: 1:00 PM
FUNERAL SERVICE: 2:00 PM