JoAnn Kulis-Kearns Valeriano

JoAnn Kulis-Kearns Valeriano, of Berwyn, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 14, 2026 surrounded by loved ones.  Born on May 1, 1953, she was 73 years old.  JoAnn is survived by her two sons: Jim (Paula) Kearns and John (Diana) Kearns.  Along with her four grandchildren:  Benny, Bella, Billy, and Lizzy.  JoAnn was preceded in death by her mother, Phyllis Van Cura, and granddaughter, Irene Kearns. 

JoAnn was a life-long Berwyn resident and dedicated her life to public service. As a registered nurse, her career spanned working in hospitals, elementary schools, and home visits. She was also a proud Girl Scout leader, always encouraging her troop to help others and to face challenges with courage and confidence.

JoAnn also proudly served the Berwyn North District 98 School Board for the past 29 years.  She was the longest serving board member in the history of District 98 earning her recognition from the North Berwyn Park District as the recipient of the 2025 Joseph C. Vallez Award for her outstanding service, exceptional leadership, visionary guidance, and dedication in improving the quality of life in the City of Berwyn.

Anyone who knew JoAnn knew she would always tell you exactly what she was thinking, with no filter. The thing she was most proud of being a school board member was her voice—never giving a rubber stamp “yes” vote, but a person of conviction, honesty, and strong advocacy.  She always had the teacher’s back and fought for what she truly believed in.

JoAnn leaves behind a remarkable legacy of service, compassion, courage, and conviction. Whether caring for a patient, encouraging a Girl Scout, supporting a teacher, advocating for a student, or simply telling someone exactly what she thought, JoAnn made an impact on generations of people throughout Berwyn.  Her voice was unmistakably her own, and it will be deeply missed.

Visitation on Thursday September 17, 2026 from 3:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home 3117 S. Oak Park Avenue, Berwyn.  Funeral on Friday 9:00 a.m. at the funeral home, then proceeding to St. Leonard Catholic Church for 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial.  Interment at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Stickney, IL. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.