Joellen K. Dooley

Joellen “Jo” K. Dooley, 72, of Waukegan, IL passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, with her family at her side. Born February 12, 1953. Joellen was the daughter of Art and Marion Dooley of Gurnee. She was a loving daughter, the best sister ever and a true and loyal friend to so many. Jo will long be remembered for her kindness as well as her brilliant and wicked sense of humor. She attended St. Patrick’s School in Wadsworth, Warren Township High School in Gurnee and Illinois State University where she earned a degree in Music Performance. As the long-time owner of A Major Music, Jo supported hundreds of musicians in their pursuit of music as a hobby or profession. Jo was celebrated by many at “Jo’s Jamboree” one year ago. While incredibly modest, she accepted the adulation, celebration and thanks shown at this event with appreciation and humility both then and throughout the past year.

Jo was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved dog Cain and some of her dearest friends. Joellen is survived by her sister, Colleen (Scott) Pacatte, nephew Blair (Liz) Pacatte and niece Tara (Jarrod) Schnell. Jo never enjoyed being the center of attention, as such, we will honor her request that the service and burial be private. However, she whole-heartedly endorsed the idea of “Jo’s Open House Party.”

What: A Toast to Jo

When: May 24, 2025

4:30 p.m. - 8:00

Where: Steven’s Restaurant

401 N. Riverside Drive

Gurnee, IL 60031

OPEN HOUSE

Jo’s family will be hosting an open house for all of her friends who wish to gather together,and share stories, laughs, food and drink as a communal toast to this amazing woman.

If you’d like to stop by, please consider bringing a photo or story to share in a book being created to capture what she meant to all of us.

If you are unable to attend please take some time at 7:00p.m. CT on 5/24/25, grab your favorite spirit and lift a glass, to Jo! Pretty sure she’ll feel the love one more time!

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Jo’s personal and professional mission of the continued support of music education. Donations will be accepted by A Major Music at:

A Major Music

PMB#316

6615 Grand Avenue

Gurnee IL 60031

Questions: amajormusic@att.net