Kathleen Birmingham

Kathy grew up in Wilmette,IL, with her older brother John and younger sister Joann. She lived in her childhood home on Isabella Street until she was married.

Kathy started her education at St. Joseph’s School, graduating in 1959. As a child, she was an avid reader—so much so that she often read while walking home! Her days at Regina Dominican High School followed, where she was in one of the first graduating classes in the class of 1963. Nicknamed “Kelly” during those years, Kathy ran for student office and lost by just one vote—her own. “Always giving” was her motto.

Kathy loved ice skating and had a powerful swing on the softball team in college. She attended Mundelein College before transferring to UIC, where she graduated with a major in Creative Writing and was also crowned Miss Circle—certainly a crowning achievement!

Her career began at Campbell Mithun, an advertising agency in Chicago, where she worked as a secretary and copywriter. It was there that she met a handsome young man named Jim, who, upon meeting her, said, “I’m going to marry that girl.”

Kathy and Jim were married in 1968 and enjoyed 56 wonderful years together. They started their life in Chicago before moving to Northbrook to raise their three children—John, Julie, and Mary. Kathy was an exceptional mother who attended every game and concert her children were involved in. She coached volleyball teams, cheerleading and taught her kids to play tennis. Kathy was also involved in the Home

and School Association and a guild at St. Norbert’s School and Church, where she formed lasting friendships. Some of her volunteer roles were working at the yearly Whale of a Sale, Hot Dog and Hamburger Holidays plus she and her life long best friend, Renee, started the Turkey Shoot fundraiser for the school.

Kathy was the mom that all of her kids’ friends turned to when they needed help. She listened, she made phone calls when they needed help, and even picked up kids at the police station when they forgot to “make good choices”, which was her famous tagline to her children and their friends. Kathy’s exceptional writing skills helped many high schoolers with their college essays. Her home was always open to all, and her kids would often come home to find their friends sitting and chatting with Kathy on the couch. She was the most beloved mom around. Her snack cabinet was legendary, the envy of every kid who entered her home.

Kathy was also an incredible dancer. She and Jim could light up any and every dance floor. They actually won a Twist contest once,and threw an unforgettable party to celebrate. In addition to reading pocket mysteries, Kathy loved watching Andy Griffith marathons… and there was always a glass of Sprite nearby.

Her heart was as big as her spirit, always putting others first. Whenever something good happened in the lives of her loved ones, she would pump her fist with a satisfied “yes!”. Kathy’s joy for her seven beautiful grandchildren was boundless—they were truly the light of her life. She showered them with affection, wisdom, and encouragement, and she cheered them on loudly at every sports or musical event they performed in.

Above all, Kathy was a fighter. She faced her battle with MS with remarkable strength and determination. Throughout it all, she had her doting husband, Jim, by her side, his love and devotion unwavering.

Kathleen was deeply loved by her family and friends, and she will be deeply missed. She was one of the good ones.

Visitation 9:30 until time of Funeral Mass at 11:00 am, Friday, December 13, 2024 at Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic Church, 440 South Mitchell Avenue, Arlington Heights, IL 60005.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (www.nationalmssociety.org)