Kathlyn “Kathy” Marie Gairani, of Springfield, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home in Springfield on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. She was born on October 19, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Sam and Clara (Overmann) Bellamy.
Kathy attended and graduated from DuBourg High School in St. Louis, Missouri, before going on to study History at the University of Illinois, Springfield. She developed a lifelong passion for the subject in all its forms. She loved exploring stories from every era and corner of the world, but she held a special affection for American history — especially the lives of U.S. presidents and the nation’s founding ideals. Her deep curiosity and patriotism reflected the way she appreciated learning and valued the world around her.
Above all, Kathy devoted her life to her family, finding her greatest joy in being a wife, mother, and grandmother.
Kathy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Victor John Gairani, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and partnership. She is survived by their six children — Victor (Cheryl), Donna (Kent) Jacobs, Matthew, Andrew (Andrea), Rhett (Megumi), and Cecelia — and her cherished grandchildren: Ginger, Isabella, Robin, Nick, Vikki, Chrissy, Andrea, Grace, Ashley, and Rhett Jr. Kathy was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren, who brought her endless joy and pride. She is also survived by her brother, Edward Bellamy.
A woman of quiet strength and gentle humor, Kathy filled her days with reading, trivia, quilting, genealogy, and scrapbooking, creating beauty and preserving memories with her hands. She was a member of Little Flower Parish in Springfield, where she found faith, friendship, and community. She will be remembered for her quick wit, sharp memory, and thoughtful observations about the world around her. Those who knew her will remember not only her intelligence but also the warmth and humor with which she shared it.
A private visitation will be held.
Reverend Daniel McGrath will officiate a funeral mass at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception where we will be honoring the life and legacy of the departed. Entombment will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Kathy’s love, wisdom, and laughter will live on through her family and all who were fortunate to know her.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.
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