Ms. Gail Anita Foster

Ms. Gail Anita Foster, affectionately known as Grandma G, Mama G, and Ma G, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2025, at 4:37pm, in Peoria, Illinois, at the age of 72. Her departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Gail was born on October 29, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois. Gail was the beloved daughter of Walter and Maria (Readus) Williams. She began her educational journey at Holy Cross Elementary and graduated from Cathedral High School in Chicago in 1970. With a deep passion for caring for others, she pursued higher education at Bradley University receiving her bachelor’s degree in sociology and later earned her nursing degree from Illinois Central College. Gail’s dedication to health and wellness led her to become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and eventually a dental hygienist. Gail's professional life was marked by compassion and service. She devoted over 25 years to PARC (now EP!C), where she made a lasting impact on individuals with developmental disabilities. Her career also included Rosewood Nursing home where she served as an LPN, with District 150 Transportation, and at CityLink Transit System, where she retired in 2017. In every position she held, Gail brought warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication. A woman of deep faith and spiritual devotion, Gail was an active member of several churches throughout her life including New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, Prince of Peace Baptist Church, and New Cornerstone Baptist Church. She served faithfully in each congregation’s drama ministry, praise team, and choir—sharing her angelic voice with joy and reverence. Beyond the church walls, she lent her talents to community choirs such as Kenneth Ward and The Bradley University Gospel Choir, The Voices of Shabock, and the Central Illinois Mass Choir. Gail’s love for the arts extended into many aspects of her life. She found joy in writing poetry and acting; she had a natural gift for storytelling that captivated those around her. Whether sewing something special for a loved one or sharing laughter through jokes that lit up a room, Gail created moments that became cherished memories. Her smile could warm any heart; her embrace offered comfort like no other. She treasured time spent with family and friends above all else. Her legacy lives on through her children: Sharahn Foster, Bobby Foster II, and Anita Foster; grandchildren: Ariana Covington, Alayna Foster, Jazlyn Foster, Devynn Bradford, Damar Bradford Jr., and Domonic Bradford; special helper: Aurice Walker; sister Janice Marable; godchildren Sean (Laquasha) Johnson, Shanna (David) Heerman, Kyie Hess, Shante Marable, Nathan Wickham, Nathaniel Wickham, and Darveis Thomas; lifetime sister-friends Pearline Addison Lozan and Yvonne (Nathaniel) Wickham; along with a host of extended family members and dear friends who will continue to honor her memory. Gail now joins in eternal rest with her parents Walter and Maria Williams; beloved Aunts Malethia Pruitt and Anethia Smith; Uncle Spencer Readus Jr.; and Cousin Deborah Pruitt; two lifetime sister friends: Renea Bolden and Charlee Smith. A Celebration of Gail’s Life will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at New Cornerstone Baptist Church in Peoria at 10:00 a.m. with visitation commencing one hour prior at 9:00 a.m. Dr. Mark A. McConnell, Pastor will officiate. Honoring not only her remarkable journey but also the love she so freely gave to others. Gail will be laid to rest at Swan Lake Memorial Gardens Ms. Gail Anita Foster will be remembered as a gentle soul whose faith guided every step she took—a woman whose voice lifted spirits and whose presence brought peace. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. Arrangements were made especially for the “Foster” family and professionally directed by T.W. Parks Colonial Chapel. Live streaming can be viewed by clicking the link for TW Parks Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/twparkscolonialchapel. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of “Gail Anita Foster” please visit our Sympathy Store.

Ms. Gail Anita Foster

October 29, 1952 - March 27, 2025