Kathy Evelyn (Wire) O'Brien

Kathy Evelyn O’Brien, 79, of Lexington, SC, formerly of Belvidere, IL , passed away peacefully Friday, July 18, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born April 20, 1946, in Freeport, IL. The daughter of Lisle and Marjorie (Wesson) Wire. She grew up in Capron, IL, and also lived in Rockford, IL. She graduated from North Boone Highschool and then went on to receive her Masters of Advanced Studies from Northern Illinois University. Kathy married the love of her life, Edward Alan O’Brien June 11, 1971 at the First Presbyterian Church in Belvidere, IL. She was also an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of the Lakes, Orlando, Fl when she lived in Orlando. Kathy was a hard worker and retired from Washington Elementary School after 33 years teaching the 3rd grade. She was life member of the First Presbyterian Church in Belvidere, IL, where she was very active. She enjoyed singing with the Bells Choir and helping with the Victorious Ministries for Christ. When Kathy wasn’t volunteering or helping others she enjoyed crafting, quilting, cooking, and traveling. Kathy is loved and will be missed by her loving daughter, Peggy (Dwayne) Crooker; grandchildren, Dwayne Crooker II, Ashley (John) Geddes, Samantha (Anthony) Henderson, Brenden LaFleur; great-grandsons, Anthony James Henderson, and Gunner Gerard Henderson; brothers, Ken (Kimberly) Wire; sisters, LaVonne (Richard) Catron, Nancy Huber, Linda Wire, Diane Feldman, Lili Floyd; brothers and sisters- in laws and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and her beloved husband of 50 years, Ed O’Brien; sister, Susan Wire. There will be a visitation Friday August 1, 2025 from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at the Belvidere Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Belvidere, IL. There will be a funeral service at 11:00 A.M. Interment Saturday, August 2, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. in Orth Cemetery in Belvidere, IL. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.belviderefh.com.