Robyn Mary O'Neill

Robyn Mary O’Neill passed away peacefully at her home on May 17, 2025, at the age of 71. A devoted daughter, sister, mother, aunt, godmother, friend, and advocate, she leaves behind a legacy of compassion and service.

Robyn was born in Long Island, New York and moved to Illinois with her family as a young adult. She is survived by her loving daughter Nell O’Neill (who was the heart of her life and the source of her greatest pride and joy), son-in-law George Datzenko; her brothers Robert Helkowski and Robert O’Neill Jr., her aunt Judy O’Neill; and a large and cherished extended family of nieces and nephews—Rebecca (Jeff), Robyn (Nick), Eric (Mallory), Zachary (Laila), Jacob (Emily), Matthew (Sam), Andrew (Nicole), Meg, Taylor, and Justin—as well as 14 great-nieces and great-nephews and cousins Kathie, Colleen, James and Kerry. Robyn was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Robert and Maureen O’Neill, sister Maryjo O’Neill Larson, uncle James O’Neill, aunt Patty Lovelock and dear friend Camille Helkowski.

Robyn began her professional life as a registered nurse, dedicating herself to caring for patients in emergency rooms and intensive care units. With skill and empathy, she provided critical support to individuals and families during some of their most vulnerable moments. Driven by a profound commitment to justice and advocacy, Robyn later pursued a career in law. As an attorney, she focused on serving low-income and underserved communities, with a particular emphasis on protecting women, children, and the elderly. Her legal work—centered on elder care and domestic abuse—touched countless lives and stood as a testament to her unwavering belief in dignity, equity, and the right of every person to be safe and heard.

Robyn was a proud alumna of Barat College, where she formed deep, enduring friendships that became family - especially with Debbie and Mary, who remained by her side through every season of life offering unwavering love, laughter, strength, and fulfillment. She loved the Chicago Bears, the ocean and traveling with her family and friends.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Legal Aid Chicago (formerly Legal Assistance Foundation), an organization whose mission reflects Robyn’s lifelong commitment to protecting the vulnerable and championing equal access to legal support. Contributions can be made via this link https://legalaidchicago.org/donate/

Details regarding a celebration of Robyn’s life will be shared with family and friends privately.