Patricia Catherine Principe

Patricia Catherine Principe, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024. Born on August 11, 1946, in Melrose Park, Illinois, Patricia was a resident of Carterville, Illinois, for the past twelve years. Patricia previously lived in Westchester, Illinois, where she raised her family and was a beacon of love, faith, and kindness to everyone who knew her.

Patricia graduated from Proviso East High School and went on to marry the love of her life, Joseph John Principe, on September 4, 1971. They shared 36 wonderful years of marriage until Joseph's passing in 2008. Patricia’s life was defined by her unwavering devotion to her family and faith in the Lord. As a homemaker, she dedicated herself to creating a warm and loving home, and her heart overflowed with kindness and compassion.

Patricia was an avid fan of Elvis Presley, found joy in music and loved to sing. She was passionate about cooking, especially Italian dishes, and took great pleasure in sharing her culinary talents with her family. Her love of Italian beef sandwiches, Diet Dr. Pepper, Folgers coffee, and pastina brought comfort to those around her, creating cherished memories. She also had a deep love of animals, especially her cats, who brought her great joy and companionship. Above all, Patricia loved her family and treasured every moment spent with them.

She is survived by her children, Dr. Catherine Ann Principe of Winter Haven, Florida, and Joseph Peter Principe of Winter Haven, Florida; stepdaughters Katherine Wilkerson of Country Club Hills, Illinois, and Patricia Gonzalez of Oak Forest, Illinois; stepson Michael Principe of Manteno, Illinois; her beloved grandchildren, Isabella Rose Principe-Diel of St. Louis, Missouri, Victoria Blossom Principe of Niles, Illinois, and Joseph David Principe of Winter Haven, Florida.

Patricia also leaves behind her dear sister Gail Caliendo Shaum of Desoto, Illinois, and brother Richard Caliendo of Sebastian, Florida, as well as nieces and nephews, including Joseph Hale of Desoto, Illinois; Daniel Hale of Harrisburg, Illinois; Jessica Hubinek of Glen Ellen, Illinois; Laura Caliendo-Barbour of Atlanta, Georgia; and James Caliendo of Allentown, Pennsylvania.

Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph John Principe; her parents, Peter Caliendo and Virginia Catherine Morris; her stepdaughter, Jo-El Baker; and her nephew, Rick Caliendo.

Patricia’s legacy of love and kindness will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing her. Her deep faith, gentle nature, and radiant smile will be dearly missed.

Final arrangements lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.