Diana Zilis Obituary

Zilis, Diana D.

Diana D. (Byrum) Zilis, 60, of Willowbrook, IL and Sanibel Island, FL, passed away at home on September 27, 2022. Dedi, as she was known to friends and family, leaves behind her beloved sons, Matthew and Brian Zilis, both of Chicago, IL. They were the great loves of her life and she was so proud of both of them and their achievements. Dedi wasn't just a mom to her sons, but also to Cubbie and Cooper, her treasured pups. In addition to her sons, she is survived by her former husband, Patrick Zilis; her nieces Kristen Byrum and Meagan Lynch and nephew David Byrum; her mother-in-law, Shir-Lee Zilis; brothers- and sisters-in-law Michael and Erin Zilis, Susan and Jay Cooney and Kevin Zilis; many nieces and nephews who she deeply loved and so many dear friends in Illinois and Mississippi. Born in Evanston, IL, daughter of the late Susan and Warner Byrum, she lived in Illinois for most of her life. She was the sister of the late Doug Byrum. Dedi was extremely close with her parents, now joining them in eternal life. Dedi graduated from Millsaps College in Jackson, MS. She majored in Accounting and worked at NCR, Balcor, and Golub Co. post-college. Shortly after Matthew was born, Dedi took a break from her career to raise her cherished sons. A long-time resident of Clarendon Hills, IL, Dedi was active in the community, volunteering her time and showing her extraordinary compassion for others. Dedi was a lifelong Cubs fan and had many additional outside interests. She poured her heart out and showed her extreme passion within no matter what she was doing in life. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Dedi's life on October 5th at Christ Church of Oak Brook, 501 Oak Brook Road, Oak Brook, IL. Visiting hours will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. Burial will be family only and she will lay in the Winnetka Congregational Churchyard alongside her loving parents. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to The Humane Society (humanesociety.org) or American Red Cross to help people affected by Hurricane Ian (redcross.org). Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home at 630/964-6500

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