PHYLLIS KELLEHER

Phyllis Kelleher, age 90, of Batavia, IL, passed away quietly into the arms of her Savior, Sunday, November 29, 2020 after a battle with cancer that stole her health, but freed her soul.

She was born August 21, 1930, in Chicago, IL, to proud and loving parents, Frank and Henrietta (Dybowski) Andrews.

Phyllis grew up in Chicago and attended local schools, graduating from St. Wenceslaus High School.

Phyllis met the love of her life through a friend, who became her sister-in-law. Joseph Kelleher swept her off her feet and eventually down the aisle, marrying in 1950. They began their new life together in Chicago for a time before moving to Wheaton in 1954. Eventually they made their home to Michigan before retiring in South Carolina. Kentucky was where grief came to call with the loss of Joseph after which Phyllis moved closer to family in St. Charles, IL, where she continued to share her love, laughter and memories.

Phyllis devoted her life and love to her husband and growing family that included three sons. In later years she worked with Joseph in his business selling electric motors, but everyone knew who “ruled the roost”.  After moving to St. Charles she stayed active by working as a volunteer for many years at Delnor Hospital.

Phyllis had a feisty spirit that never backed down from a challenge. Her opinions were as steadfast as her faith and were shared without compunction. She had passion for pewter figures, pill boxes and collectible spoons that adorned her home and had a special place in her heart. Phyllis and Joseph enjoyed travelling and reveled in the sights and sounds of Greece and Ireland to name a few. After moving back to Illinois she made a road trip around Lake Michigan with her two best friends. Phyllis made friends wherever she went. Friendships were important to her and she remained in contact with many lifelong friends including her best friends from high school. She was involved in her church, (Chapel Street Church) where she served as a greeter. She was also involved in many bible studies over the years. She maintained an active interest in the lives of her grandchildren, attending their graduations and weddings and keeping up-to-date on all their life events. Her family and friends will cherish a lifetime of memories.

She now leaves her three sons: Timothy (Linda) Kelleher, Kevin (Linda) Kelleher and Sean (Christine Frazier) Kelleher; nine grandchildren: Chris (Sarah Albright) Kelleher, Cat (Patrick) Ryan, Patrick (Megan) Kelleher and their children, Reece and Paisley; Erin (Rob) McLean, Jonathan (Emalyn) Anderson and their daughter, Mackenzie; Stefanie (James) Poggi and their children, Riley and Logan; Allison (Matthew) Knopsnider, Sarah (Collin DeMarco) Kelleher and Emily Kelleher; two sisters: Ginny Pflum and Pat Demski; many nieces, nephews

She now joins her parents, Frank and Henrietta Andrews; her husband Joseph Kelleher; two sisters, Lorraine Doskey and Grace Zuba and a brother Frank Andrews who preceded her in death. 

A celebration of life will be held to honor Phyllis’ life and memory at a later date when all can attend together.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Phyllis’ name to the charity of your choice. Tributes and memories may be left on the Conley Funeral Home Facebook Page, or at www.conleycare.com.

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