Eileen Marie Farrell

Eileen was born in Brooklyn, New York, where she met and married her husband, Bill, embarking on a lifelong journey together. They raised their three children in New Jersey before life circumstances led them to reside in Detroit, Michigan, then Syracuse, New York, and finally, Chicago, Illinois, where they happily lived for over 25 years, savoring the city's food, art, and culture. They cherished their proximity to their grandchildren in Plainfield, Illinois. Recently, Eileen and Bill relocated to La Jolla, California, to be closer to their two youngest grandchildren and to provide more support for Eileen. They enjoyed the milder temperatures, but most of all they loved spending quality time with their California family.

Eileen was known to her friends and family as a quick thinker, problem solver, and baby whisperer. She couldn't witness suffering without taking action, and her devotion to her loved ones benefited us all. She was an amazing grandmother, delighting the kids with little gifts or special attention. As a Mother, she tried to protect her children from anything that could harm them, and extended this protection to all our childhood friends. She also had a playful side. She was a sore loser at playing cards or other games, and even worse when she won. Her sense of humor, charm, and ability to make people feel at ease endeared her to everyone.

Eileen carried all these same qualities everywhere, including her work. She made a difference in the lives of students who adored her during her tenure at Bishop Ludden High School, where she worked for several years in recruitment, as well as the families she served as a funeral director in Syracuse, NY (a career she began in her mid-40s), and later in her role as an executive for various family funeral businesses at Service Corps International.

Eileen was unafraid of taking risks, starting anew, and embracing new experiences. She had a deep love for travel and meeting new people. It was challenging for her loved ones to witness her struggle with serious health issues over the past five years, but we are profoundly grateful for the time we had to share laughter, engage in debates, learn from her, and express our love. Her absence leaves a void that is difficult to fathom.

Eileen is survived by her husband, Bill Farrell; her three daughters, Janine Dwyer, Megan Ragsdale, and Tracie Farrell; her sons-in-law, Mike Dwyer and Mike Ragsdale; her daughter-in-law, Laura Farrell; her grandchildren, Madeline Dwyer, Aidan Dwyer, Ella Dwyer, Grace Ragsdale, and Lou Ragsdale; and her brother, Jack Radigan. She was called home to heaven to join her sister, Patrice Maucere, her mother, Marie Radigan, and her father, Jack Radigan Sr.