Obituary of Katherine Lynnette Hopwood
Katherine Lynnette Hopwood, passed away peacefully at the age of 59, on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Silver Cross Hospital. She was born on November 5, 1966, in Springfield, IL to Ronald E. Hopwood and Harriet ( nee Hooker) Hopwood O’Malley.
Katherine dedicated her professional life to her love of learning and literature as a librarian at the Fountaindale Public Library in Bolingbrook. A true bookworm at heart, she delighted in reading, following her favorite authors, and immersing herself in beloved stories, especially Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings.
Katherine shared a very close bond with her mother, Harriet, and together they enjoyed traveling throughout Europe and attending live theatre. She had a deep love for children and found joy in caring for them and actively engaging in their lives. Katherine was truly one of a kind—she loved deeply, cared fiercely, and formed meaningful connections with those around her, especially her beloved brothers.
Katherine is survived by her mother, Harriet O’Malley; her brothers, Ron Gene (Alicia) Hopwood, and Anthony Scott (Kim) Hopwood; nephew, Jordan (Esmeralda) Hopwood; niece, Erika Hopwood; and several aunts and uncles.
She was preceded in death by her father, Ronald E. Hopwood, and uncle, Stan Hopwood.
Vitiation for Katherine Hopwood will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, from 10:00 am until the time of service at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at St Joseph Cemetery in Joliet.
For more information, please call 815-741-5500, or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
