Cathy Chiarodo, 67, of Benld, died at 4:55 p.m. on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Belleville Memorial Hospital, surrounded by family.
A funeral service celebrating Cathy’s life will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, March 21, at Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until the time of service.
Mrs. Chiarodo was born on Dec. 24, 1957. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She was fierce in her love, bold in her presence and unwavering in her loyalty. Mrs. Chiarodo adored her son, Jimmy and was the most joyful, playful grandmother to Kaiya and Vance. She treated her nieces and nephews like her own children, shared a deep bond with her brother, Richie and cherished her relationships with her cousins.
For 45 years, she was married to David Chiarodo, the love of her life and her perfect counterpart. She kept him on his toes with her big personality, while he was her steady, calm presence. Where Mrs. Chiarodo was outspoken, he was quiet; where she was bold, he was patient. Together, they balanced each other in a way that only true soulmates can.
Mrs. Chiarodo was tough, funny and full of life, never letting her multiple sclerosis diagnosis slow her down.
Mrs. Chiarodo shared an unbreakable bond with Pamela and Delores, who were not just her sisters but her best friends. Their relationship was filled with love, laughter and the kind of mischief only sisters understand.
Mrs. Chiarodo was also her brother Richie’s fiercest protector, standing by his side through every challenge life threw their way. And in turn, Richie was her rock, offering her unconditional love and support until the very end. Their bond was unshakable—a relationship built on deep trust, loyalty and an endless well of love.
She is survived by her father, Richard Adams; husband, David; son, Jimmy; grandchildren, Kaiya and Vance and her brother, Richie (Lori). She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and cousins, all of whom will forever miss her warmth, humor and protective spirit.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Delores Adams; sisters, Pamela Adams Barrero and Delores Adams Pratt; and numerous beloved fur babies that she considered her children.
Though she deserved more time, Mrs. Chiarodo’s energy—her huge, unforgettable and beautiful spirit—will live on forever.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Benld Adopt-A-Pet (www.benldadoptapet.org) through their website, by mail at 807 Stewart Ave., P.O. Box 53, Benld, IL 62009, or in person at the same address. Plummer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. To sign the online guest book, light a virtual candle, or for more information, please visit www.plummerfuneralservices.com.
