Donna M. Connolly

Donna Marie Connolly, 89, of Libertyville, formerly of Glenview, passed away on December 20, 2024, at her home, in the care of her children.

Donna was the youngest of five children born on October 8, 1935, to Irene Whitty in Chicago, Illinois.  Her father, Michael Whitty died a few months before she was born.  She married William P. Connolly on June 25, 1956.  He predeceased her on February 6, 2013.

Donna graduated from Notre Dame High School.  Her career was primarily in clerical support and bookkeeping.  She worked until she was over 80 years old. 

More important than her work life, was her role as mother.  She and William had five children.  The eldest, Mark, predeceased Donna, but left his widow, Jacqueline Connolly, who remained close to Donna.  Donna is survived by three daughters:  Karen Eiten of Peru, Illinois, Diane (Bill) McTighe of Glenview, Illinois, and Linda (Paul) Littledale of Palatine, Illinois; and one son:  Stephen (Kathleen) Connolly of Libertyville, Illinois.

She is survived by 20 grandchildren: Sr. Ivitza-Marie of the Mercy of the Royal Heart, John (Sheila) Connolly, Joseph (Regina) Connolly, Mary Connolly, Thomas Connolly, Sr. Sarah-Marie of the Precious Blood of the Royal Lamb, Iris (Jacob) Frye, Sr. Bernadette-Marie of the Child Jesus, Brigid Connolly, Sr. Jacqueline-Marie of the Eternal Love of the Royal Heart, Megan (Aleks Lalayants) Eiten, Kimberly (Robert) Parker, Lyle Andrew (Casey) Eiten, Vicky Foss, Brian (Madeleine) Foss, Sean Littledale, Kathryn Littledale, David Oliver, Matthew Connolly (Kelly McCormack), and Robyn (Eric) Behm.  In addition, she is survived by 16 beloved great-grandchildren.  

Visitation will be Friday, January 10, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cooney Funeral Home, 625 Busse Hwy., Park Ridge, Illinois.  Family and friends will meet Saturday January 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. for Requiem High Mass at St. John Cantius Church, 825 N. Carpenter Street, Chicago.  Entombment will be at All Saints Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Patrons of Sacred Music-Organ Fund at St. John Cantius Church, Carmelite Monastery in Des Plaines, or the Sisters Adorers of the Royal Heart of Jesus Christ Sovereign Priest.

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