It is with deep sadness that the family of Marian F. Kennedy marks her passing from this life on February 13, 2014 at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital. Marian was born April 30, 1926 in Philadelphia, Penn., the daughter of Thomas J. and Louise (Hasenmayer) Finegan.

Marian married the love of her life, Joseph A. Kennedy in Philadelphia on September 24,1955. During the early years of their marriage and later when Joe retired, they traveled the world extensively and enjoyed their lives together as a couple. Eventually the road led to Bloomington-Normal where they made their home for over four decades. When asked what Marian had always wanted to be, her reply was "I always wanted to be a mother." Three very fortunate children were blessed to call her "Mom".

Marian spent many years as a "professional" homemaker and volunteer. She served as a leader on many boards both at Epiphany Catholic Church and school, as well as a volunteer at the local hospital. Marian was very active in her children's school activities and sporting events.

Because of her many close friends, bridge groups and those she volunteered with, Marian continued to remain in Normal for many years after the death of her beloved husband . Following this time, Marian spent her winters in Hilton Head, S.C., where she treasured the time spent with her dear sister, brother-in-law and many wonderful friends.

In 2011, Marian made the decision to move to O'Fallon, Ill. to be closer to family. She was immediately embraced by the Macaluso family, as well as the St. Nicholas parish family and in a very short time developed close relationships.

Marian was a person of great faith, which served her well in difficult times. She faced her current cancer battle with an incredible, unfaltering belief and considered herself to be blessed by God. She thoroughly enjoyed learning about the lives of everyone she met. She was "smart as a whip" and those who knew her would marvel at her independence, intelligence and youthful appearance.

While Marian loved her children, she really "loved" her grandchildren. She was a fixture at school programs, masses, and sporting events. Her grandchildren will dearly miss their Grandma K.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, brother Thomas Finegan Jr., sister-in-law and brother-in-law Rosemary and Norbert Ellis.

Surviving are her daughter, Louise Kennedy of Addison, Ill., son Joe (Tracy) Kennedy of Fenton, Mo.; and daughter Mary (Steve) Macaluso, of O'Fallon Ill. Grandchildren James Boring, Michael Boring, Dominic Macaluso, Katherine Macaluso, Jak Kennedy, and Jaida Kennedy. A sister Joan (Larry) Stemann, as well as many nieces and nephews who always held a special place in her heart.

Memorials may be made to Epiphany Catholic Church, Normal, Ill. or St. Nicholas Catholic Church, O'Fallon, Ill.

Services in O'Fallon, Ill.:
Visitation: Friends may call 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 18, 2014 at St. Nicholas Catholic Church.
Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 18, 2014 at the church.

Services in Normal, Ill:
Visitation: Friends may call10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 22, 2014 at Epiphany Catholic Church.
Memorial mass: 11:00 a.m., Saturday, February 22, 2014 at the church.