Darcy Kay Killigrew

Darcy Kay Killigrew, 64, Palatine, IL. Born August 15, 1961, in Peoria, IL to Eugene "Gene" and Marian Ferris, she passed away November 23, 2025. Beloved wife of James "Jim" Killigrew. Loving mother of Patrick and Angela Killigrew. Dear sister of Dru (Andrea) Ferris.

Darcy graduated from Glenbard West High School in 1979. After receiving her bachelor's degree from North Central College in 1983, she was employed as a Property Management Accountant for The Palmer Group, Ltd., an Assistant Controller / Senior Partnership Account for the Merchandise Mart Properties Inc., and controller for Miles Management Corp.

She met her husband, Jim Killigrew, at a wedding in Chicago. They were married May 1, 1993.

Following the birth of her son, Patrick, Darcy put her career on hold and was a devoted full time mom. She served as a room mom, field trip chaperone, and any other needed volunteer role for her children's classes at Stuart Paddock Elementary School. In addition, she was a Girl Scout Troop Leader - Troop 114, Paddock Elementary School.

Darcy was active in the PTA, serving in various positions including, President – Stuart R. Paddock PTA, President – Walter R. Sundling PTA, and Executive Board Member / Secretary – Illinois PTA.

She was a member of the Knights of Columbus Holy Ghost Council #4977 Ladies Auxiliary and served as the organization's secretary.

When her children were older she returned to the workforce and was employed as an administrative assistant and bookkeeper for CML Wealth Management and controller for Palatine Celtic Soccer Club.

She loved getting away and taking vacations, especially London and Aruba. Travel brought her peace, joy, and time with the people she loved most.

She was an incredible cook and baker, creating meals that brought everyone together. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, and the memories made around her table will last forever.

Christmas was her favorite holiday. Her favorite Christmas dishes include beef tenderloin, various cookies, and caramels. She made over 1,000 caramels each year that she shared with family and friends. The secret ingredient in all of her culinary creations was the love that she poured into them.

She had a deep love for miniature schnauzers - they were truly part of the family.

She was the best listener, someone everyone could go to for honesty, comfort, and real advice. She never sugar-coated things - she spoke the truth with love and strength.

She loved being with her friends and enjoyed bunco nights, book club, and dinner parties. She created community and laughter wherever she went.

Strong-willed and full of determination, she faced every challenge with courage and grace.

More than anything, she loved her family. She never missed any of her children's activities - sports, school events, and band performances. She showed up every time, cheering them on and supporting them in everything they did. She was their constant, their safe place, and their biggest fan.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her honesty, her strength, and the love she poured into everyone around her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Darcy's name to: National Kidney Foundation (https://www.kidney.org/), Glaucoma Research Foundation (https://glaucoma.org /), Cardiovascular Research Foundation ( https://www.crf.org /), or Anti-Cruelty (https://anticruelty.org /)

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, December 12, at Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 185 E. Northwest Hwy., Palatine, from 3-8 PM. Family and friends will meet Saturday, December 13 at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 455 N. Benton Street, Palatine, for her funeral Mass at 10 AM. Interment St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery.