Prairie State Wire

Carol Conway, the fourth child of Thomas “Cuddles” and Julia Conway, was born on December 29, 1949, following her lifelong friend Dorothy McCauley Kijek by a day. Growing up alongside her older siblings at St. Sabina parish, she received her education from St. Sabina, Queen of Peace, and St. Mary of the Woods.

Embarking on a remarkable 34-year career as a Chicago Public School English teacher post-graduation, Carol taught at Morgan Park High School and Hyde Park Career Academy. Admired for her exceptional teaching skills, she earned a Master’s degree in English from Chicago State University. Her significant impact in education was recognized through various accolades such as the Blume-Kovler Award and the Pepsi Educational Excellence Award.

Upon retirement, Carol pursued further personal growth, completing her Master’s in Pastoral Studies at Loyola University in 2007. Her passion for service led her to join the Sisters of Mercy as an Associate, where she played a pivotal role in the formation of Catherine’s Caring Cause, Inc. NFP, supporting asylum seekers and refugees alongside the Sisters Pat Murphy and JoAnn Persch. In 2020, Carol returned to teaching at Saint Xavier University’s Renaissance program, infusing literary classics with her unique perspective. She also took on the role of publicity chairperson for the program, showcasing her dedication and dynamism.

Carol’s family, friends, and Mercy community were pillars of strength and support throughout her life, particularly in her final days. She is preceded in death by her parents and sister turned Sr. Gilchrist, and survived by her loving brothers, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., followed by her funeral on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at Curley Funeral Home, Chicago Ridge. The funeral service will take place at St. John Fisher Church at 11:00 a.m., with interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In honor of Carol’s wishes, donations to Catherine’s Caring Cause and Almost Home are preferred over flowers.

For further funeral details, please contact 708-422-2700 or visit www.curleyfuneralhome.com. Carol’s legacy of compassion, service, and love will always be treasured by the lives she touched.

Rest in Peace, Carol Conway.

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