SPRINGFIELD, IL – Wanda Sue Riseman, 81, passed away Friday, December 17, 2021, at her home with her sons by her side.

She was born September 8, 1940, to Marion and Helen (Lambert) Cowling in a four-room house with no electricity or running water. She married Paul Riseman on May 25, 1963 in Springfield. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 50 years, Paul; three brothers; and a sister.

Wanda earned her Master's degree from UIS. She was an art teacher with District 186 for 30 years with wonderful, talented students. She was a life member of Alpha Omicron Pi Sorority, and a member of the National Education Association, Illinois Education Association and Illinois Art Education Association. She served on the Scholastic Arts Board for over 10 years. In 2001, Mayor Karen Hasara and the Springfield Area Arts Council presented her with the Mayor's Award for the Arts. After retirement, she took to gardening and created an oasis of beauty in the neighborhood, frequently talking to passers-by about plants and gardens. She was grateful for a rewarding life filled with travel (too many destinations around this globe to mention), meaningful friendships and a loving family.

She is survived by her children, Samuel Cutler (Michelle Repp) Riseman and Michael Benjamin (Carla) Riseman; grandchildren, Alexandra Beth, Benjamin Cutler, Ella Van Laere, William Bix and Pauline Cecilia; sister, Phyllis Smith; several nieces and nephews; her companion of many years, Toby McDaniel; sister of choice, Martha Kichinko; and Verbal Faye Yvonne Hulfachor Angelico, her oldest friend (with the longest name).

To honor Wanda's wishes, no services will be held.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Central Illinois Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity or Animal Protective League.