Esther V. Martinez Forshee, of Galesburg, died on her 85th birthday at 12:03 p.m. Saturday, May 16, 2020 at Marigold Health Care and Rehab, Galesburg.
Esther was born May 16, 1935 in Galesburg, the daughter of Abundio and Emilia G. (Rios) Martinez. She married Robert L. Forshee on October 25, 1958 in Galesburg. He preceded her in death on September 17, 1969. Esther is survived by her large and loving family; one son, Mark Forshee of Galesburg; two daughters, Angela (Heber Culerbo) Martinez-Alvarez of Galesburg and Mary Ann (Greg) Tucci of Joliet; two step daughters, Janice (Robert) Davis and Janet (John) Wright both of Abingdon; 18 grandchidlren; 29 great grandchildren; and 15 great great grandchildren. She is also survived by one brother, Jesse (JoAnne) Martinez of Galesburg; three sisters, Connie Delgado, Mary R. Senders, and Julia Madura all of Galesburg; and numerous nieces and nephews. Along with her parents and husband, Esther was preceded in death by one son, Ross “Butch” Forshee; one step daughter, Linda DeJaynes; one great grandson, Cassius; four sisters, Angela Martinez, Hope Mendez-Ramirez, Elisa Mendez, Patricia Mendez-Floriano; and one brother, Evaristo Martinez.
Esther worked at the famed Custer Hotel in Galesburg as an elevator operator for several years. She later worked at Jumer’s Hotel in Galesburg. She was a faithful member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. She enjoyed listening to music as well as dancing. Esther was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bulls fan; and enjoyed reading magazines. She cherished her family above all else and held on closely to family memories.
Private family services will be held. A memorial mass will be held at a later date. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to the family in Care of Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
