Hildegard Schwalm, 99, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 2, 2026 at the Petersburg Healthcare Center. Born on March 31, 1927 in Westerholt, Germany, she was the daughter of Wilhelm and Auguste Sablotny. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Bruce Schwalm and son, Henry A. Schwalm.

She is survived by her sons, Frank Schwalm, Timothy Schwalm (Janet), grandchildren, Kristen Schwalm (Cody Bryant), Jennie Schwalm Porter (Brett), Rebecca Lois Smith (Jamison), Cameron Alan Schwalm (Tori Stevenson), great grandchildren, Jocelyn Grace Smith, Henry Jamison Smith, and very special nieces and nephews.

Hildegard was a devoted member of the Fort Lee Memorial Chapel, and the American Legion Auxiliary Post #2, and was a former member of the German speaking Damen Klub. She enjoyed watching her favorite movie, The Sound of Music, and her favorite TV show, The Golden Girls. You could also find her seeking out word puzzles while snuggling with her beloved dachshunds who brought her great joy and companionship.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Crater Road Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes, 3925 S. Crater Road, Petersburg, Virginia 23805. Interment will be private at Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Serenity First Hospice 4915 Fitzhugh Ave, Richmond, VA 23230.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the entire staff at the Petersburg Healthcare Center and Serenity First Hospice.