Shirley A. Severino of LaGrange, IL, passed away Sept. 22nd after a long life of caring for others. Beloved wife of the late Dr. Alexander H. Severino, she is survived by her children Angela Severino (Scott Schlemmel), Antoinette Hendzel (Adam), Alex Severino (Laurie), Anthony Severino, Anne Wilder (Michael), Andre Severino (Beth); her sisters Pat Wistort, Dolores Mulhall, brother Thomas Killoran; 14 grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Shirley is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Helen Killoran, her sister Janet Dujsik, and grandson Nathaniel.  Born and raised in Roseland (Chicago), Shirley attended Holy Rosary, Academy of Our Lady High School, and the University of Chicago. She graduated Saint Bernard’s Nursing School (Loyola) and would later earn her Master’s Degree from Aurora University (George Williams College).  She worked as a nurse at Loyola University Medical Center, and later as a nurse for Chicago Public Schools (Anthony Overton School and Christopher School).  Shirley was widowed early in her marriage, and courageously raised and cared for her six children and was a tremendous role model, mentor and matriarch.  Shirley’s 42 year residency in La Grange was highlighted by community service.  She was active as a member of the St. Cletus Church Choir, Sweet Adelines Barbershop choir, and a long-time volunteer and board member at Beds Plus, a homeless advocacy group. Shirley also had a love for animals and rescued and cared for several Greyhound dogs during her life.  In her retirement she loved spending time with her family and was an avid Cubs fan.  Shirley had a passion for travel, especially with family, and will be dearly missed by those that survive her.  The family is grateful for all the love and care that has been shown to her throughout her extended illness, especially for her caregivers Jozefa and Mariola.  Visitation is from 3 to 9pm Thursday, Oct. 1st at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside.
Prayers 9:30am Friday, Oct. 2nd at the funeral home to St. Cletus Church, LaGrange for Mass at 10am.  Entombment Queen of Heaven Mausoleum. Memorials may be made to Midwest Greyhound Adoption, P.O. Box 338, Sugar Grove, IL 60554, or BEDS Plus Care (www.beds-plus.org) P.O. Box 2035, LaGrange, IL 60525.  Funeral info. 708/352-6500