Eleanor Weathers - Pryor

Eleanor Florence Searles was a native Evanstonian. She began her journey on April 6, 1935 when she was born to Fredrick & Christine Searles in a Chicagoland hospital. Evanston, during this time, was racially segregated and did not allow black babies to be born in any of the hospitals in Evanston. Even though she grew up in a time where racial tension was prevalent, Eleanor was raised and surrounded by the love of her family including her brother Ricky, her Grandmother "Granny" and her Aunt Margret whom also lived in the family home. At an early age Eleanor became a devoted Christian. She was baptized and attended Mount Zion Church regularly with her mother. She was educated in the Evanston Public School System and received her bachelor of Science in Education Degree from the National College of Education.

In 1957 Eleanor married Louis Weathers her high school classmate and this union created two children Michael Weathers and Darlenna (Weathers) Williams. The family became members of the Ebenezer Church where Eleanor taught Sunday School, she sang in the Gospel Choir and volunteered in several other positions.  During their marriage Eleanor became an Elementary School Teacher in the Evanston Township School District, teaching 2nd and 3rd grade at several schools. Eleanor further pursued her career passion and obtained a Special Education Credential to teach children with learning disabilities. Her students adored her and were sadden when she decided to retired  after 25 years of services.   

Retiring early certainly allowed her time for several actives and involvement with her community. After her first marriage ended, Eleanor married Carlton Pryor in 1990 and they enjoyed many years together. The couple traveled to Bermuda for their honeymoon, later traveled to Paris, London and adventured on several other destination. Eleanor also traveled with friends and family, her most memorable was a trip to Jerusalem where she was baptized in the River of Jordan. Eleanor was not one to sit still. She was an active member and intercessor at First Church of God Christian Life Center, member of the Foster Senior Club and a member of the Levy Senior Center where she exercised and enjoy social activities. Even at over 60 years of age Eleanor still enjoyed biking ,roller blading skating and continued her daily walks around the neighborhood.  She also was a volunteer for the Meals on Wheels Program.

During her later years Eleanor lived with her daughter's family in California where she received the love  and care she needed. A few years later she returned to her home with the support of her husband and a team of caregiver's. Eleanor lived out her favorite bible scripture Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto your own understand; in all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path. Proverbs;3:5-6.

Eleanor is survived by her husband, Carleton and their children (collectively), Michael Weathers, Darleena Williams(Mark), Ricky Jordan (Keanna), Kenard Pryor; Her brother Rickey Searles; Her two grandchildren, Shari and Christopher; 6 grandchildren by marriage, Justin, Ashley, Syntoria, Jybren, Kenard, Jr. Lonney; A host of nieces, cousins, and dear friends.

Eleanor's beauty, eloquence and sense of human will be missed, but her soul is at rest with our Lord.

Arrangements entrusted to Thompson Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. Mr. Philip L. Gillette ~ Funeral Director

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