Eleanor Lockhart

Eleanor Lockhart, 82, a beloved mother, grandmother, and nurse, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2023, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria with her family by her side. She was born on November 15, 1940, in West Frankfort, IL, the daughter of Benjamin and Elma Dunlap Newton. She married Walter "Dusty" Lockhart in Peoria on June 30, 1984.

Surviving are three children, Penny (Keven) Forney of Bloomington, IL; Russell Boster of Morton, IL; Lisa Hill of East Peoria, IL; including three stepchildren Mike Lockhart of Athens, IL. Mark (Angie) Lockhart and Michelle (Ray) Kissling, both of LaPorte, IN. Also surviving are 17 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband in June of 2023, three sisters, and two brothers.

Eleanor was a woman of determination and resilience. She pursued her passion for helping others by earning her nursing degree, a feat that she achieved through hard work and perseverance. Her dedication to her profession was evident in her long and successful career in the medical field. Eleanor's commitment to her work went beyond her professional duties; she was also a loving and supportive mother who instilled the same values in her children. One of her proudest moments was pinning her granddaughter as a nurse, a testament to her legacy in nursing.

Eleanor had a zest for life that was contagious. She was a lover of country and 50's music, and she could often be found line dancing or humming along to her favorite tunes. She was an avid fan of the Olympics, particularly ice skating. Eleanor also had a keen interest in coin and book collecting, a hobby she enthusiastically pursued.

Her love for puzzles and reading was only surpassed by her love for her family and friends. She was the life of every family and holiday event, always ready with a funny story or a loving gesture. She enjoyed traveling with her family, especially wintering in Florida and taking vacations with her siblings. Her love for cinema was shared with her sister, with whom she enjoyed many movie outings.

Eleanor was a spirited woman who lived her life to the fullest. She was known for her loving nature and her great sense of humor. She had a unique ability to light up a room with her laughter and positive energy. Eleanor was a beacon of strength and love to all who knew her, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Eleanor's life was a testament to her loving, funny, and spirited nature. She was a woman who lived her life with passion and joy, always putting others before herself. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide those fortunate enough to know her. Her life was a beautiful example of love and service, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Eleanor's memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, and all the lives she touched throughout her remarkable life.

A visitation will be held on Monday, September 25, 2023, from 4 PM until 6 PM at Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington. A funeral service is also scheduled at the funeral home for 10:30 AM on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. Cremation rites will follow her service, and a private family burial will be held later at Fondulac Cemetery in East Peoria. In lieu of flowers, memorials in her name may be given to the Easter Seals, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home. Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements. To share a memory or condolence to her family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.