QuoVadis Kelly-Hightower

QuoVadis D Kelly-Hightower, aged 72, of Naperville, IL, passed away on September 27, 2024. Born on June 20, 1952, QuoVadis grew up in New York City in a family headed by two loving parents. As an adult, she never missed an opportunity to let you know that she was raised in Brooklyn and her speech was sometimes peppered with such phrases as "in a New York minute."

She had a generous and giving heart. She always made sure everyone was well-fed, comfortable, and taken care of - not just her family and friends, but if those close to her cared about someone, then she cared for them too.

After moving from New York to Illinois, she turned her tenacity, strong work ethic, intelligence, and concern for the well-being of others into a successful 25+ year career with the Housing Authorities of Ottawa, Streator, Joliet and Peoria.

She retired in 2021 from Joshua Arms of Joliet to focus on her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she adored deeply.

She loved to travel, dance, cook, and play card games like Bid Wiz and Spades and was an avid fan of crime, game and talk shows, took "shots" of Cazadores Blanco Tequila, and cherished her collection of high heels. Known for her catchphrases, including "Jesus take the wheel" and "be it as it may," and "oh s**t" she brought life and laughter to every gathering.

She was most known for her fighting spirit as she overcame many life and health challenges.

QuoVadis was a devout attendee of St. Mary Magdalenes in Joliet, IL, and Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Naperville, IL. Her faith and community were integral parts of her life.

She leaves behind her children, Raquel Washington (Kenny), Branden Kelly, Damien Kelly (Amanda), and DeVerese Smith (CJ); grandchildren Marcellus, Kenyon, Amari, MaCayla, Deacon, and Jackson; and her beloved grandpets: Bianca, Bailey--the love of her life, Brianna, Jax, Aleska, Ava, April and fish, shrimp, snails & crabs.

QuoVadis is also survived by her "sistahs" Margie and Marilyn, along with her nephews Jason and James (Man-Man), niece Kimberly and a host of other nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her Uncle Artie; her father Johnnie Hammock; the women who raised her: Marjorie Moaney & Mabel Hammock; her sisters Johnnie Mae, Jane, Rosemary; her brother Emory; her aunt Dot (Dorothea); and her nephew Brandon (Buck).

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