Jean A. Korby

Our mother was born at home, the first child of John and Angela Pajda, on November 30, 1922 in Chicago. She passed March 19, 2024 after an incredible 101 years. Her birth was followed by Joseph (Irene), Joan (Joseph), Frank (Norma), Donald (Jackie), and Richard (Joyce). She worked at the family bakery from her early childhood years through the Great Depression, World War II, and for many years thereafter. She met our father Leonard (Korby) after the war at a Saturday night dance, and they married in 1948. They had three children together, Robert (Delores), Jim (Donna), and Alene. Mom was a loving grandmother to the five grandchildren who followed, Katie (Joe), Stephanie (Stephen), Gina, Aimee, and Michael. Beloved GG to three great-grandchildren, Samantha, Evan, and Francesca. Loved unconditionally by her forever companion and pup, Sparkle Plenty.

Our mom was exquisite in every way. She was a woman of unwavering Faith and prayer with a deep devotion to our Blessed Mother. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and energetic work with a wonderful appreciation for the simple joys in life. She had a lifelong love of reading and homemaking, especially gardening and baking, with her lawn and garden being amongst the finest in the Palos area. Her garden oasis was her happy place where she could often be found late in the day working the soil, planting, or attending it. She was proud that her garden was selected by the Palos Heights Women’s Garden Club for their 1999 Garden Walk.

Mom lost her sidekick and loving husband of 54 years in 2003. Their years together brought forth multitudes of laughter and humorous incidents, many of which her children and grandchildren remember fondly. Her hearty and infectious laugh and beautiful smile will always be with us.

Despite the challenges that come with old age, mom continued to live life to the fullest. She was cared for by her daughter Alene who provided our mother with unending love, compassion, and support. Her dedication to our mother’s well being was a testament to the strong bond that exists within our family.

Mom stayed vital and involved in daily life until her passing. Her sharp mind and curiosity never waned, and she could often be found reading the daily papers and periodicals in her favorite chair, clipping out interesting articles, especially regarding health and nature, to discuss with her children and grandchildren. One of her favorite traditions was creating a Christmas Day family quiz and competition covering a multitude of subjects. It inevitably turned into a chorus of giggling and laughter and was looked forward to annually by all.

Mom’s bright spirit and warm presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of faith, kindness, resilience, and love will continue to inspire us. We are all blessed to have been able to call you friend, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Thank you for the love, joy, and wisdom that you shared with all of us.

Visitation Monday, March 25^th from 9 am until time of chapel prayers, 11 am at THE KERRY FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CARE CENTER, 7020 W. 127^th Street, Palos Heights proceeding to Saint Alexander Church, Mass 11:30 am

Interment will be private.