Hampton, Iowa — The Hampton community is mourning the loss of Lily Montalvo, a bright and spirited teenager whose life, though tragically short, was filled with joy, laughter, and compassion. Lily passed away earlier this week at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines, surrounded by family, friends, and the unwavering support of hospital staff.
Early Friday morning, Lily was honored with a touching farewell procession. Around 7:30 a.m., dozens of hospital staff, friends, and loved ones lined the first-floor hallway of MercyOne as she was gently wheeled through. In a moment that brought many to tears, Lily’s beloved dog, Junior, walked beside her — a testament to the deep love and comfort he brought her.
In a final act of kindness, Lily’s organs will be donated to help others — a decision that reflects her family’s selflessness and the generosity that defined Lily’s life.
“She was really silly,” recalled her best friend, Yanessia Montes. “She always had a smile on her face. She’d put on funny makeup and draw moustaches just to make us laugh. That’s who she was.”
Yanessia’s mother added, “She was always so positive and full of light. You didn’t have to see her to know she was there — you could just feel her presence.”
Lily, who would have entered her sophomore year at Hampton-Dumont-CAL High School this fall, was known for her humor, her huge heart, and her ability to make people feel loved. Her presence was a gift to those who knew her, and her loss is being deeply felt throughout the community.
Honoring Lily – Monday, June 23
To support Lily’s family and celebrate her life, the Hampton community will come together on Monday with the following tributes and support initiatives:
💛 Memorial Donation Account
A memorial account has been established at First Bank Hampton to assist the family with funeral expenses. Donations can be made under the account name:
Martina Nerhus – Lily Montalvo Memorial
💬 Community and Student Support
From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Hampton-Dumont-CAL High School will open its doors to students and community members who need a space to grieve and talk. School counselors, pastors, teachers, and staff will be present.
Entry: Use the main (south) doors.
🕯 Candlelight Memorial
At 7:00 PM, a candlelight memorial will take place at the YFC building, offering space for friends and family to share memories, offer support, and reflect on Lily’s impact. Her father plans to attend and is looking forward to hearing stories about his daughter.
📸 Photos for the Celebration of Life
The family is also planning a Celebration of Life service in the coming weeks. Lily’s father is inviting anyone with photos of her to share them for inclusion in the tribute.
Send photos to: Martina Nerhus at msmith@giyfc.org
A Legacy of Light
Lily Montalvo was more than a student, a friend, or a daughter — she was a beacon of joy. Known for her goofy humor, bright smile, and the love she poured into everyone around her, Lily’s presence uplifted those who needed it most.
Though her physical presence is gone, her spirit continues to live in the hearts of her loved ones — in shared laughter, in kind gestures, and in the lives her organ donation will save.
As Hampton gathers to mourn, it also celebrates: a young life that, even in its brevity, taught so many how to love more freely, laugh more often, and live more fully.
May Lily Montalvo be remembered not just for how she left, but for how deeply she lived.
