Carlee Faidley, nee Sanders, was born to parents John and Lillie (Moon) in Coffee County, TN. She was the oldest and last surviving of five children, the late Ruby, Emmett, Helen and Ellen. Her traditional southern, country upbringing laid the groundwork for a lifetime of rich stories and fond, family memories. Her hunger for adventure led her to move to Boston and later, Chicago, where she met and married in 1955 World War II veteran, the late Thomas Edward Faidley. Chicago would be where she would raise her children, Teresa, Cathy, Mary and the late Mark Thomas. Carlee was a dedicated mother and spent years as a homemaker and active member of parent/teacher organizations. She was an avid fan of the culture available in the city and taught her children to appreciate all that it offered. Later in life, she found her calling and was able to put to use her passion for helping others as she worked for one of Chicago’s finest physicians in a bustling, downtown medical office. That same physician would later guide her through her relentless medical struggles as both a friend and professional. Her passion for family was fulfilled as cherished grandmother to Erini (Chris), John (Megan), Michael and Allison; beloved aunt to Sandy, Brenda, Mary, Judy and Emmett; and great-aunt to many. She welcomed into her heart her sons through marriage: Peter Shire, Joseph Barranco and the late Robert Mahoney. Carlee launched the battle of her life as she fought the ravages of long-term Diabetes. She became a passionate spokesperson and taught others how to live with and take charge of the disease. Carlee’s battle came to an end on October 4, 2005 in her Morton Grove home, surrounded by her family. Carlee was always an inspiration to those who met her. Her kind, tender spirit, optimism, courage and grace touched our lives and will remain forever in our hearts. Visitation Friday, 9 a.m. until services at 11 a.m. at Friedrichs Funeral Home, 320 West Central Rd., at Northwest Highway, Mt. Prospect. Interment Memory Gardens Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, American Diabetes Association, www.diabetes.org, P.O. Box 1131, Fairfax, VA 22038-1131. For info, 847-255-7800 or www.friedrichsfh.com.
