Anna R. Fortson, formerly of Peoria, 75, passed away at 1:10pm Monday, October 31, 2022 at Apostolic Christian Home in Eureka.

Anna Mae was born May 15, 1947 in Waynesville, MO to the late Milton "Red" Rice and Mary (Lewis) Rice. She married Richard Fortson on May 26, 1973 in Peoria; he preceded her in death on November 16, 2013.

Surviving is her son, Ross (Phyllis) Fortson of Morriston, FL; daughter, Amanda (Nick Jr.) Donald of Washington; grandchildren, Emery, Cameron and Adriene Donald; brother, Milton "Elm" (Bev) Rice; and a host of family and friends.

Anna graduated from Pekin Community High School in 1965. She then furthered her education at Methodist School of Nursing graduating in 1969. She received her BSN and her MSN at Bradley University. She was a long-time oncology nurse at Methodist Medical Center and finished her career as a nursing instructor for the Methodist College of Nursing, retiring in 2007. She took great pride in her career and made many life-long friends from her time on 6 West. Anna had a love of learning all her life and was an avid reader. She enjoyed antiquing, gardening, cross-stitch, and traveling. She cherished the time spent with her family, especially when attending her grandchildren's events.

Anna's family will receive friends from 5:00pm-7:00 pm, with a memorial service to follow on Monday, November 21, 2022 at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Peoria Symphony Orchestra.