Norma Jean Ford Riesz, age 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at home in Victoria, Texas on November 22, 2009. She was born in Woodford County, Illinois to the late Carl and Margaret Ford.

She grew up in Minonk, Illinois and attended Illinois State University. Prior to her marriage to Peter in 1958, she taught school at the intermediate grade level in Illinois and after her marriage she taught in Camden, New Jersey. Each class retained a special place in her heart.

She left teaching to join Peter in the Army in Orleans, France where he had been assigned as a medical doctor. These years were followed by assignments in San Antonio and Stuttgart, West Germany. The years in Europe brought her a deep love and appreciation for the great works of art. They had a chance to visit and study in most of the great museums. The Cathedral at Chartres was a very special place to her.

After the military years, she and Peter moved to Victoria in 1970 where he established a radiology practice. They joined the Victoria First United Methodist Church. Jean became active in the youth work. She was a member of the Decora Study Club. She also served as President of the Medical Alliance.

Survivors: husband, Peter B. Riesz, MD; daughters: Nancy O’Sullivan and husband Sean K. O’Sullivan, MD of Victoria; Laura Oswalt of Houston; son: David A. Riesz, MD and wife Linda Chase Riesz of San Antonio; brothers: James D. Ford and his wife Mary of Minonk, IL; John S. Ford and wife Darlene of Grand Haven, MI; beloved grandchildren: Megan and Britney O’Sullivan; Matthew and Andrea Oswalt; Garrett and Blake Riesz as well as nieces and nephews.

The family wants to thank Cecilia, Lindsey, and Hospice of South Texas as well as Drs. Bauknight and Riedel for their gentle care.

Visitation will be from 6PM to 8PM on December 1, 2009 at the Colonial Funeral Home Chapel. A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church on December 2, 2009 at 2PM. A private interment will be held for the family.

Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Come One, Come All Sunday school class. Memorial donations may be sent to Victoria First United Methodist Church, 407 N. Bridge, 77901.