Judith A. Funari
Obituary's Biography:
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Judy Funari, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, who left this world on March 24, 2025 at the age of 85.
Judy was a woman whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. Her family was everything to her. She had an extraordinary ability to build and maintain lifelong friendships. Whether it was through a warm hug, a word of encouragement, or simply sitting quietly beside someone, Judy always knew how to offer comfort and love.
As a mother, she let her children know that there no problem that they couldn’t bring to her. Through tears and hugs she got them through everything. She taught them the values of love, faith, and resilience. Her children were her pride, and she was their rock, a foundation of support that will be missed dearly.
As a grandmother and great-grandmother, she took great joy in watching her family grow. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Her infectious laugh, sense of humor, and playful spirit will be carried on in their hearts forever.
In addition to her family, Judy was a cherished aunt and friend. Her circle of loved ones was vast, and she had a unique way of making everyone feel special and valued. She leaves behind countless memories of love, laughter, and a presence that will never be forgotten.
Throughout her life, Judy remained strong in her faith, a faith that anchored her through life’s challenges and allowed her to face each day with grace and gratitude. Her strength and unwavering belief were an inspiration to all who knew her.
Her love, kindness, funny stories, and infectious laugh will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her. We take comfort in knowing that she is now in the arms of the Lord, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her.
She will be dearly missed, but her love will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her most. Judy is survived by her children, Helen (Russ Doherty) Eslamirad of Carmel, IN, Rena Wils of East Moline, IL, Denise Funari of Alameda, CA, and Nick Funari of Lake Villa, IL; her former son-in-law, Ghasem Eslamirad; her grandchildren, Brittany (James) Harrison of Cicero, IN, Tony Eslamirad of Noblesville, IN, Emily (Ryan) Zigler of Noblesville, IN, Brian (Amanda) Wils of Brookfield, WI, and Chris (Kayla) Wils of Moline, IL, Amelia (Nick) Funari of Milwaukee, WI, Gino (Jennifer) Funari of Berlin, Germany; her great-grandchildren, Matthew Harrison, Grace Harrison, Lincoln Zigler, Pierce Zigler, Madilynn Wils, Logan Wils, Charlotte Wils, and one on the way; her brother, John (Nancy) Marshall of Mt. Prospect, IL. She was preceded in death by her husband, Reno Funari; her brother, Ed Marshall; and her sister, Roberta Harrington.
A visitation will be held at Hope Evangelical Church, 32475 N Alleghany Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Thursday, April 3, 2025 from 3pm until 4:30pm, with a funeral service beginning at 4:30pm. Interment will be held privately. All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.
Judy Funari is my 1st cousin. My father, Gilbert Marshall and Judy’s dad, Ted Marshall were brothers. The few times I saw Judy were always fun and memorable. Her great happiness and cheer and her great laugh were a wonderful experience and memory. We spoke on the phone several times after my sister Ann Marshall LeClair passed away. I finally found Judy’s phone number by searching the internet. It was such a joy to be reconnected with Judy. My sister was unable to give me Judy’s phone number. Judy gave me her brother John’s phone number. John let me know of Judy passing and sent me this obituary link. I’m glad I spoke to Judy ten days before she passed. I spoke to her son, Nick, too.
I am praying for Judy’s family and friends for their comfort and peace during their grief.
God bless you Judy! I am so greatful that you are my cousin.
Aunt Judy was such a blessing in my life. I will always cherish and deeply miss the times spent talking with her. Our conversations sometimes had heartfelt tears and most often a good belly laugh. No matter what, I always felt better after spending time with her. She was a source of strength, love, and laughter. Her genuine concern and understanding always made me feel loved and supported. Her strong faith and positive attitude, especially during tough trials, were a beautiful example and a source of encouragement that continues to guide me.