Kathleen Greaney

Kathleen Marie Greaney, lovingly known as "GiGi," passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born June 16, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, Kathleen lived a life defined by love, generosity, and quiet strength. She showed up for the people she cared about in countless ways, and those moments are what made her extraordinary.

Kathleen was a devoted wife to John P. Greaney, and together they formed a family and built lives grounded in laughter, mutual respect, and deep family connection. She was a loving mother to Mary-Kay (Brian) Barrett, Sean (Olga) Greaney, Kevin (Dorothy) Greaney, and Colleen (Tom) Porritt, and a proud grandmother to Isabella, Gavin, Gabriella, Sophia, and Joel (Sean and Olga); Matea, Natalia, and Marco (Kevin and Dorothy); and Jameson (PFC, USMC) and Killian (Tom and Colleen). Her grandchildren were the joy of her life, and she poured herself into creating memories they will carry forever.

Her children often referred to her as their "Wonder Woman"-a quiet acknowledgment of how she always managed to hold everything together with grace, humor, and determination.

Kathleen worked for many years at Pepperidge Farm in Downers Grove, where she became well known for her success. Her coworkers remember her as thoughtful and kind, always ready to help and quick to offer encouragement.

She found happiness in life's everyday moments-driving neighborhood kids to the YMCA and CCD classes, hosting family gatherings, playing bunco and card games, and opening her home to friends with ease and warmth. She loved traveling to new places, but just as much treasured quiet evenings at home with a good book and a glass of Baileys or prosecco.

Kathleen's home was her sanctuary-a place filled with laughter, love, and holiday decorations that became family traditions, especially at Christmas and St. Patrick's Day. She took special pride in her Christmas tree, carefully making sure every light was perfect-a small detail that reflected how thoughtfully she cared for everything and everyone around her.

Those who knew Kathleen remember that, like anyone, she had human moments-but she never demonstrated anger. She met people where they were, not where she thought they should be, offering empathy and compassion freely. She had a rare gift for making others feel accepted, understood, and safe. Extraordinary in her kindness, she was equally remarkable for her quiet grace.

Kathleen will be remembered for her generous heart, her steady presence, and the way she made people feel truly seen. She gave freely of herself, loved deeply, and leaves behind a legacy of compassion that lives on in her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. As her family lovingly says, Kathleen was so deeply loved by God that she simply took the express lane to heaven.

Kathleen's family is planning a celebration of life on February 22, 2026, at Carriage Greens Country Club, 8700 Carriage Green Dr., Darien, IL 60561. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. A memorial Mass will follow this coming summer; details are forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, an organization that was close to Kathleen's heart.