Joy E. Donahue, (nee Birmingham) age 82, longtime resident of River Forest and Oak Park.  Beloved wife of the late Donald F. Donahue, Jr. Loving mother of Donald (Dana) Donahue, III, Margaret Donahue, Emily (Steve) Tazic and the late Jennifer Mary Donahue.  Proud grandmother of Ben, Lauren and Matthew Donahue and Jane, Teddy and Violet Tazic. Dear sister of Jim (Connie) Birmingham and Connie (Jim) Galles. Joy was preceded in death by her brother the late Bill (the late Sally) Birmingham and brothers-in-law, the late Dan (Judy) and the late Bob (Brenda) Donahue.  Fond aunt of many nieces and nephews, caring cousin and loyal friend.

Joy was born and raised in Sioux City, IA but spent summers on Pine Island on Lake Vermilion, MN. While she was initially a teacher, Joy went on to earn a Master of Library Science degree at Dominican University. She was a recognizable and always helpful librarian at the River Forest Public Library.  She was also an avid reader and was a member of many book clubs.

Joy truly led with her faith in her daily actions. She was a tireless volunteer for numerous organizations and causes, serving underprivileged communities.  A devout Catholic, Joy had a deep faith in Jesus Christ and his mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Joy had a gentle presence but was incredibly smart and witty. She kept a busy social calendar. She enjoyed the orchestra, travel, her prayer groups and meeting up with her many circles of friends. Above all, Joy really loved spending time with her family and friends!

A requiem Mass will be held Saturday, August 8 at 9am at Our Lady Immaculate Church, 410 Washington Blvd., Oak Park, IL. Interment will follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, August 15 at 10am at St. Luke Church, 7600 Lathrop St., River Forest, IL. The mass will be live streamed at https://www.youtube.com/live/BzisanxzdvY?si=-AteSZAZ_l4gg4s2

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joy's memory to the Misericordia Heart of Mercy Home (www.misericordia.com).

Arrangements entrusted to The Original Kuratko Family, Brian D. Kuratko-Director. Info at (708) F-U-N-E-R-A-L