Dolores (nee Farrar) “Dee” Galbraith, 93, died peacefully on March 31, 2026, happy knowing she is reunited with her husband, Bob, a reunion 50+ years in the making. Born on Sept. 15, 1932, in Springfield, she lived a life of grace and quiet strength, deeply rooted in her faith. She expressed that faith not only in words, but in the way she lived each day. In addition to raising her children, and her work as a teacher and a brokerage assistant, she was an active and member of St. Luke Church in River Forest, for over 50 years, where she not only started and chaired the Bereavement Committee, but volunteered in many other ministries, such as the Peace and Justice, and Arts and Environment committees.
She didn’t believe in love at first sight until she met Bob Galbraith, the absolute love of her life, in 1952. She blossomed, as he instilled in her a confidence she hadn’t previously known, opening up her world to new opportunities, completely changing the course of her life. They considered their family of five children their crowning achievement
She carried herself with a curiosity that never seemed to fade. Her laughter and humor were gifts, and her wise perspective brought clarity to those seeking guidance. She listened carefully, spoke thoughtfully, and offered a well-timed remark that often brought a laugh.
Dee was the wife of Robert A. (Bob) Galbraith, who preceded her in death. She is survived by her children, Stephen A. Galbraith, Anne G. Danaher (Jack), Christopher R. Galbraith (Maura Matthews), Margaret G. Norman (the late Doug Norman), and Thomas B. Galbraith (DeeDee Campbell); her 12 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be held at Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home in Forest Park on Sunday, April 26, from 2 to 4 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at St. Luke Church in River Forest on Monday, April 27, beginning at 10 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Forest Park Public Library or Housing Forward (previously known as PADS in Oak Park).