Jo Ann O'Reilly

In Loving Memory of Jo Ann O'Reilly

Jo Ann O'Reilly  of Oak Park, IL , passed away peacefully , Saturday May 25, 2024 at the age of 82.  She was born 12/18/1941  to her adoring late parents, Terrence O'Reilly and Florence O'Reilly (nee Sauer), and preceded in death by her cherished sister, Dr. Rita O’Reilly Pucci ( Robert Sedlacek).  Left to carry her memory forward are her life partner, Bill Derosa and their foster children , April ( Vince King) Sisto and Jean ( John )  Russel , her beloved grandchildren, Jasmine, Amaya, Cassandra, Jonathan, Nathan and Alexis, her dearest sisters : Mary Ellen De Andrea of Chicago, Dr. Kathleen (Arthur Engelland) Halleran of Woodstock, IL,   Peggy (Layi) Olorunsola of Boulder, CO and Maureen ( Michael) Lowe of Denver, Colorado along with many loving nieces and nephews.

Jo Ann was the eldest of six sisters, a role she embraced with grace, responsibility, and boundless care. Her life was a testament to compassion and generosity, qualities she exemplified in every aspect of her being.

After graduating from Mount Mary College, Jo Ann answered a higher calling and entered the convent as a School Sister of Notre Dame. Her journey brought her back to the Academy of Our Lady (Longwood), where she shared her passion for drama with students, igniting their creativity and shaping their lives.

Her dedication to teaching extended beyond the classroom as she embarked on a 30 Plus-year career as a chaplain and professor at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Center in Chicago. Jo Ann's impact on her students was profound; many considered her a mentor and friend for life.

Jo Ann's love for teaching was matched only by her thirst for knowledge. A lifelong learner, she pursued higher education with zeal, earning her MA from the University of Michigan and working toward a PhD online. She cherished education not only for herself but also for the empowerment it provided others.

Beyond academia, Jo Ann found joy in travel, crosswords, and books. She delighted in sharing her experiences and insights with loved ones, fostering meaningful conversations and connections wherever she went.

Supported by her devoted life partner, Bill Derosa, Jo Ann loved and fostered two daughters, and deeply cared for her six grandchildren. Her home was a sanctuary of love and acceptance.

Jo Ann's legacy of love, wisdom, and compassion will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Though she may be gone from this world, her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives she touched. Jo Ann O'Reilly will be dearly missed but never forgotten.