Obituary

Nancy Lee Pearson Wilson, 85, of San Tan Valley, Arizona, passed away peacefully on November 13, 2025. She was born on June 30, 1940, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Leroy and Lucille Menken.

Nancy grew up in Bloomington and graduated from Bloomington High School on June 3, 1958. She married Ronald Pearson in January 1960, and together they raised four children: Jeff (Karla) Pearson, Kevin (Leslie) Pearson, Kim (Lance) Savant, and Eric (Tanya) Pearson. After Ronald’s passing, she later found love again and married Gary Wilson in December 2000.

Family was always at the heart of Nancy’s life. She was a devouted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who treasured her 16 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, as well as her three stepchildren, five step-grandchildren, and step great-grandchild. She is also survived by her brother Lee “Tyke” Menken; she was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Lucille, her first husband Ronald, and her brother Charles “Chuck” Menken.

Nancy lived with kindness, humor, and a deep sense of doing what was right. Her caring and loving personality drew people to her, and she was known for her generosity, her playful spirit, and her love of family gatherings-especially during the holidays. She enjoyed traveling, including memorable trips to Europe and Italy with friends, and an unforgettable visit to Madison, Wisconsin, to see Elvis Presley, her favorite singer.

She adored dogs, loved to dance, and found simple joys in playing with her grandkids and great-grandkids. Ironing clothes was her unique form of therapy, loved shopping, and her famous peanut butter fudge became a beloved family tradition. Nancy was also a faithful Christian, attending St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Illinois and a non-denominational church in Arizona.

Nancy will be remembered for the warmth she brought into every room, her giving heart, and the love she shared with all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with a service at 2:00 PM, at Seward Park District Gymnasium, 2970 Tracy Street, Seward, Illinois 61077.