LAKE IN THE HILLS—Deacon John “Jack” A. McPhee, 86, of Lake in the Hills, died peacefully on Feb. 19, 2026, with his family by his side.
Deacon McPhee was born on June 13, 1939, in Lowell, Massachusetts, the son of Edward and Lillian (Rowe) McPhee. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy. On Oct. 28, 1961, he married the love of his life, Elenora “Ellie” Kritter, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned more than six decades.
Deacon McPhee’s commitment to service was evident throughout his life. He served as Village President of Lake in the Hills from 1974 to 1981 and later as a member of the Board of Trustees, where he also held the role of Police Commissioner. His dedication to his community was unwavering, and he worked tirelessly to help shape and strengthen the village he loved.
In 1998, he answered a deeper calling and was ordained a permanent deacon for the Diocese of Rockford, a vocation he embraced with great passion, faith, and an endless willingness to serve others. He faithfully served as a deacon at St. Mary Parish in Huntley, where his compassion, warmth, and spiritual guidance touched many lives.
Deacon McPhee was known for his wonderful Irish humor and always had a joke ready to share. His kind spirit, gentle nature, and generous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Donald, and sister-in-law, Carol.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Ellie McPhee; his children, Theresa Raymond, Colleen (Fred) Oerkfitz, John F. (Tammy) McPhee, and David M. (Jeanette) McPhee; 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Edward T. (Carole) McPhee and Robert J. (Karen) McPhee.
Visitation was held Feb. 23 at DeFiore Funeral Home, Huntley. A second visitation took place Feb. 24 prior to the funeral Mass celebrated at St. Mary Church, Huntley. Burial is in Windridge Memory Garden in Cary.
Obituary courtesy of DeFiore Funeral Home.
