James Patrick Brophy

James Patrick “Pat” Brophy, 76, lifelong Rockford resident, died peacefully at home Sunday, April 21, 2024, after a two year battle with cancer.  Born July 18, 1947, he was the eldest child of James S. and Lois J. King Brophy.  He graduated from Boylan Catholic High School in 1965, earned his bachelor’s degree from NIU and his master’s degree from National Louis University. “Broph” was a much loved and respected teacher at East High School for 36 1/2 years. He was also a Student Commission Advisor, Natural Helpers Trainer and loyal E-Rab fan among other roles. In addition, he was an REA union representative and area director for many years.

 He cared deeply for  the thousands of students with whom he interacted, positively impacting them in the classroom, the hallways or extra-curricular activities.  He sincerely hoped they would find purpose and satisfaction in life as well as joy and laughter. He was dedicated to his profession, collaborative with his colleagues and a mentor to many younger staff. He inspired all to leave the world a better place.

He was a long suffering fan of the “maybe next year” Bears and Cubs. He was also a regular blood bank donor prior to his illness and a volunteer with Healing Pathways for several years.

He is survived by his wife, best friend and soulmate, Jo Ann Heise; siblings: Timothy (Christine Gabel) Brophy, Ann (Jim Brown) Brophy, Colleen (Jack) Karstens and Daniel Brophy; nieces and nephews: Nate (Pegah) Karstens, Trevor (Tarah) Karstens, Nicki Joy Karstens, Emily (Pete) Frank, Hannah (Pete) Cohen, Heather (Chris) Gehrt, Karrie (Kenny Reed) Klemp, Amy M. Heise, Charles (Amy L.) Heise and Kamilla Afanasieva. Also survived by his delightfully entertaining great nieces and nephews: Caspian, Ronan, Skye, Saoirse and Teagan Karstens; Claire and Caroline Cohen; Jackson Frank; Alyssa and Trevor Gehrt; and Landon, Juliana and Juliette Heise; sister-in-law Charlene Klemp; brother-in-law Brent (Aliya)Heise; former sister-in-law Jackie Heise. Predeceased by his parents, sister Mary Brophy and nephew Matthew Karstens.

Special thanks to Dr. Neal Kellenberger, Dr. Nameer Mardini and his team, Dr. Mathew Legel and MoChara Hospice.

A memorial service to honor Pat will be held at 4:00 pm on Friday, May 17, 2024 in Fitzgerald Funeral  Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. preceded by a time of visitation from 1:30 until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials  may be given to Rock River Valley Food Pantry or Northern Illinois Food Bank in memory of Pat.