Kathy A. Reilly

Kathy Ann Reilly, better known as "Birdie," 75, of La Crescent, MN passed away peacefully on October 12, 2025 with her loving husband by her side.

Kathy was born on September 2, 1950 in Dubuque, IA, to Eugene and Virginia Sweeney.

Kathy graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1968, then went on to the University of Northern Iowa. She earned a BA degree in Elementary Teaching in 1972. She moved to La Crosse, WI for her first teaching position at Pleasant Valley Elementary for three years. During this time, she met her future husband, Pat Reilly. They moved to Rockford, IL for one year before returning to the La Crosse area. She accepted a teaching position at Northern Hills Elementary School in Onalaska, WI and taught there for almost 30 years. After retiring, her love for teaching and children didn't end there. She continued to substitute teach for another five years.

Kathy married Patrick Reilly on January 18, 1975. During their 50 years of marriage, they welcomed three children Zachary (Brittany) Reilly, Megan (Philip) Blanchard, Kathleen (Hans) Brabbit, and seven wonderful grandchildren: Elise and Brann Reilly, Finley and Brody Blanchard, and Maeve, Mack, and Reilly Jo Brabbit.

Kathy especially loved her husband, children, and grandchildren. She was known for saying "I love you more" in response to any of her children or grandchildren saying "I love you" to her. There is no doubt she meant it as family was always first and foremost to her. She also loved their 1898 brick farmhouse, which she and Pat renovated, their 2-acre scenic yard and their renovated "party" barn. She adored all her dear friends who came to many barn parties to celebrate, and all their dogs throughout the years. She enjoyed cheering on the Chicago Bears, watching her grandkids play sports, and spending quality time with her friends, especially the "Dubuque crew" who would come yearly to visit.

Kathy will be remembered for her beautiful smile (and love for lipstick), her Irish spunk, her compassion and willingness to listen, and her deep and endless love. She made everyone feel special.

Remaining to cherish Kathy's memory are her husband, Pat Reilly; children, Zack, Megan, and Kathleen; grandchildren, Elise, Brann, Finley, Brody, Maeve, Mack, and Reilly Jo; sister, Susan Sweeney; and nephews, Michael and Nicholas DeCesare.

Preceding Kathy in death are her parents, Eugene and Virginia Sweeney.

The family extends a special thank you to the Emplify doctors, nurses, and hospice team for their compassionate care.

A private Celebration of Life to honor the sweet and beloved Birdie will be held at a later date.