Will County Gazette

Joanne Rosemary Portegys, aged 88, of Wilmington, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025, at Riverside Medical Center in Kankakee, Illinois. She was known for her unwavering faith, deep love for her family, and dedication to her community.

After raising her children, Joanne worked as an activity director in a Joliet care facility, and later served faithfully at St. Paul the Apostle Parish and St. Liborius Parish until her retirement in 2006. She was an active member of St. Rose Catholic Church in Wilmington and Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Coal City, where she lovingly contributed as a prayer warrior.

Joanne's talents included oil painting, gardening, and crafting. She had a profound appreciation for handmade items and was a creative soul who touched the lives of those around her.

She is survived by her son, daughter, step-children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Joanne was preceded in death by her parents, three husbands, two daughters, and a son.

Visitation will be held at Reeves Funeral Home in Coal City on May 16, 2025, followed by a funeral service at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Roman Catholic Church on May 17, 2025. Joanne will be laid to rest at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Romeoville.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Joanne's memory. Funeral services were directed by Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory.

Condolences and memories can be shared on Joanne's online memorial page.

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