Kathleen D Wisdom

KATHLEEN WISDOM

GODFREY – Kathleen D. Wisdom, 94, a fiercely independent and spirited woman, passed away at 4:10 p.m., Friday, February 7, 2025, at Jerseyville Manor, just one day after celebrating her 94th birthday.

Born in Hartford, Illinois, on February 6, 1931, Kathleen was one of eight children born to the late Gilford and Kathryn (Kirkpatrick) Wisdom. As a child, her family moved to a farm near Otterville in Jersey County, where she learned the values of hard work, resilience, and determination – qualities that would define her throughout her life.

Kathleen spent her entire working career as a packer at Owens-Illinois Glass Works, where she forged strong friendships and built upon the work ethic instilled in her from a young age. She took great pride in her job and remained a steadfast, reliable presence in her workplace.

For over 25 years, she made her home in Godfrey before eventually moving to Hawthorne Inn in Jerseyville. Though initially reluctant to make the transition, Kathleen found unexpected joy in her new community, forming close friendships and endearing herself to fellow residents and staff alike. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the teams at Hawthorne Inn and Jerseyville Manor for their compassionate care and kindness.

Kathleen was known for her love of cars, always driving the finest vehicles and keeping them in impeccable condition. Her appreciation for a well-maintained automobile mirrored her approach to life – meticulous, independent, and full of passion.

She lived life fully and on her own terms, unafraid to chart her own course. Kathleen was a free spirit with a sharp wit, a keen sense of humor, and an undeniable strength that carried her trough life’s ups and downs. She valued her independence fiercely and embraced each chapter of her life with grace and determination.

Kathleen is survived by a special niece and caregiver who lovingly ensured Kathleen’s needs were met with dignity and care, Jeane Steinkuehler of Godfrey and her children, Clark Fry and Craig Fry, along with their families; along with many other nieces and nephews and extended family members.  

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by six sisters, Edna Keber, Lois Summers, Alberta Sandstrom, Lillian Hay, Irene “Toodie” Hagen and Vivian Westhoff; as well as a brother, Warren Wisdom.

Committal services will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025, in the chapel at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Crawford Funeral Home in Jerseyville has been entrusted with arrangements.

Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kathleen D Wisdom, please visit our floral store.