Frances Fortier

Frances Ellen Donnelly Fortier was born on May 29, 1923 and passed away peacefully on June 9th, 2016 at the age of 93, surrounded by family.

Fran was a redheaded Irishwoman with the most extraordinary green eyes. She was proud of her heritage and passionate about every endeavor she undertook. She was known by all for her vivacious and energetic spirit while working tirelessly to serve others. She was a dedicated elementary reading teacher for over 30 years and received a Teacher of the Year award. She is best known, however, for her incessant work to save unborn children.

She began the Return Ministry for post abortion healing, which was evolved into Rachel's Vineyard weekend retreats, which are now nationwide. She helped developed Birthright of Du Page with her Co-Director Lu Eber. She was active in many other ministries, including Helpers of God's Precious Infants, Project Gabriel, Council of Catholic Women, and Illinois and National Right to Life, among others. She was the Director of the Joliet Diocese Life Office for over 30 years.

In 2007 she was bestowed the highest award given to Catholic Lay Persons, the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Award, from Pope Benedict XVI, for distinguished service to the Church and Papacy. Bishop Sartain nominated her for the award, and when he presented it to her he said she was "one of the pillars of the Pro-Life movement" in Joliet and beyond. He added, " I have no doubt that God is smiling at you" as he presented her award.

Fran was the mother of five children, Suzanne, Martin, John (deceased), Bob, and Jeanne Marie. She has four grandchildren, Shannon, Peter Jr, Sean Paul, and Faith Palmer. She was the oldest of five and is survived by her brother Dick Donnelly. She will be missed by many nieces, nephews, other extended family, as well as by many friends.

Visitation Sunday, June 12th from 2p,m – 6 pm at Countryside Funeral Home,333 South Roselle Rd, Roselle, Ill 60171 (630-529-5751)
Monday June 13th, 2016:
Prayers at 9:15 at Countryside Funeral Home
We will then proceed to St. Walter's Catholic Church
130 W Pine St, Roselle, IL 60172

Funeral Mass Monday June 13th at 10 am.
A luncheon afterwards is provided in the church hall.

At 12:30 we will depart for St Mary’s Cemetery
87th and Hamlin Ave, Evergreen Park, Il. 60805
for a service from 1:45-2:00pm in the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to
Birthright of Joliet, 310 N Hammes Ave, Joliet, IL 60435, (815) 725-3411 or any other pro life organization.