Heidi Louise (Smithers) Dalby

Heidi L. (Smithers) Dalby, of Lewistown, passed away Nov. 14, 2025, at home, surrounded by love after facing a sudden illness and courageous battle. In her final days, she showed the same strength and stubborn grace that defined her life.
Born on May 24, 1948, in Lewistown, she was the devoted wife of William “Abb” Dalby, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure.
Heidi was a 1966 graduate of Chief Logan High School where she played in the high school marching band. After high school she immediately started working at Glick Shoes as a saleswoman. She then spent 35 years working for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare, retiring in 2006. She was a 50-year member of the Milroy American Legion Auxiliary.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Louise Smithers, her previous four-legged fur-son, Mike with whom she shared an extraordinary bond, and her beloved four-legged fur-son, Tanner, who held a very special place in her heart.
With absolute love and adoration, Heidi leaves behind her beautiful legacy through her daughter, Holly (Demaree) Millheim, (husband Albert) of Muncy; and step-sons, William A. Dalby II, Brian C. Dalby, (Burnham) and Scott M. Dalby (fiancée Jody), of Lewistown.
With her entire heart and soul, she leaves nothing but love for her grandchildren. Among those she loved deeply, she shared a unique and special bond with her granddaughter, Amber, whose life she touched in countless ways, and will forever carry her memory forward with grace and gratitude. Granddaughter, Amber Motko, (husband Danny) Schuylkill Haven; Keith and Alex Lundberg; Steven and Sydney Millheim. She was also endlessly proud of her great-grandchildren, Hayden and Brock Motko, whom she had the privilege of being present welcoming them into the world, bringing so much joy to all of her days.
She also leaves behind a brother, Wayne Smithers (Sue) Harrisburg; niece (Ellen) and nephews (Jeff and Eric). Special sentiment to Ed and Maggie Feigles (Muncy).
Heidi’s love for animals was unmatched, and she would never forget to mention Murphy, Mack and Paisley–her cherished family’s companions who filled her love of animals with comfort, joy, and treats.
A true Phillies Phanatic, Heidi was known for her loyal spirit and vibrant enthusiasm for “Her Boys.” She loved traveling and cruising around the world, hand in hand with her loving husband, exploring life one port at a time. At home, she found peace and happiness on her patio, where she could often be found watching the birds and the critters she adored, surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature.
Heidi will be remembered for her kindness, her humor, and the deep love she carried for her family. Her presence was a gift, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.
Her family finds comfort in knowing that her parents have their girl back in their arms once more, and that the love she gave so freely will continue to live on–ever present in the hearts and lives of those she touched.
Arrangements will be made by Heller-Hoenstine Funeral Home, Woodlawn and per her request, services will be private and held with close family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rescue Our Furry Friends P.O. Box 6, Lewistown PA 17044, any local animal shelter in her memory, or First United Methodist 200 East 3rd Street, Lewistown, PA, 17044
Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.hellerhoenstinefuneralhome.com.

