Helen Josephine Conlee, 78, of Gillespie, died on the morning of Thursday, May 28, 2026, surrounded by the love and care of her family at home.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie. A Funeral Mass will follow at noon at SS. Simon and Jude Catholic Church in Gillespie. Burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Gillespie.
Born to Mr. Curt and Mrs. Rosemary Schulz, Mrs. Conlee grew up understanding the value of dedication and resilience. She went on to carve out a distinguished professional career, dedicating 30 years of service to the Illinois Secretary of State in the Department of Business Services, Corporation Division. In an era when women faced immense hurdles in the workplace, Mrs. Conlee’s natural leadership and perseverance through adversity helped her break the glass ceiling. Her commitment to her peers extended well into her retirement, where she proudly served as President of the State of Illinois Retired Employees Association from 2016 to 2018.
Mrs. Conlee’s journey over the last year and a half was a beautiful testament to her sheer willpower. Diagnosed with leukemia in Dec. 2024, she faced her diagnosis with hesitation at first, but ultimately chose to fiercely fight, starting chemotherapy in August 2025. Her bravery extended her time with us from mere days to many beautiful months. In Feb. 2026, when treatments became less effective, she chose to enter hospice care at home, where she could be wrapped in the familiar warmth of the family she adored.
Her warmth, wisdom and pioneering spirit leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. She fought the good fight, she finished her race, and she will never be forgotten.
At home, she remained the heart of her family. Daily life often revolved around the little things that brought her comfort and joy, especially sharing meals with family and reconnecting with friends. Above all, she was determined to see her only grandson graduate with his master’s degree. She was able to witness that beautiful milestone, proudly watching Zach walk across the stage at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on TV. Having seen her final wish fulfilled, she passed peacefully a little over a week later.
To know Mrs. Conlee was to know a woman of profound care and compassion. She had a lifelong willingness to serve and help however she could. She was an avid learner who loved nothing more than getting lost down a hole of new knowledge, sharing stories and visits with her many friends. Above all, she was a loving wife, caring mother and a deeply supportive grandmother whose presence will be profoundly missed.
Mrs. Conlee is survived by her spouse, Harold; son, Jeffrey; grandson, Zachariah (Naiyill); brother, Richard (Young Ja); nieces, Eleanor Margaret, Patricia, Jennifer and Rebecca; as well as a community of extended family and lifelong friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. Curt and Mrs. Rosemary Schulz; her beloved brothers, William “Billy” and James “Jimmy”; and her sister, Eleanor Margaret “Peggy”.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Catholic Charities or for the offering of Catholic Masses.
Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com.
