Anna “Bonita” Dillard, a longtime Park Forest resident and former Village trustee, played a significant role in shaping civic life in the community through decades of public service, volunteerism, and community leadership.

Dillard moved to Park Forest with her husband, Roy, in the late 1960s and quickly became active in the Village. In 1999, she was appointed to the Park Forest Board of Trustees, becoming one of the first African American women to serve in that role. She was elected by residents the following year and went on to win re-election in 2003, 2006, and 2009. Her service on the board concluded in 2013.

During her time as trustee, Park Forest experienced periods of transition and growth. Dillard was widely regarded as a thoughtful and prepared leader who approached public service with care, consistency, and a strong belief in civic responsibility. Her work reflected Park Forest’s longstanding values, including inclusion, resident engagement, and community involvement.

Before joining the Village Board, Dillard served on the Park Forest Planning Commission from 1990 to 1994 and was deeply involved in local organizations. She was an active member of the Park Forest Kiwanis Club, where she later served as president, and held leadership roles with the Dr. Charles E. Gavin Foundation, supporting education-focused initiatives.

Dillard and her husband were also instrumental in strengthening Park Forest’s cultural offerings. Together, they helped establish the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Conference Room at Freedom Hall and supported numerous concerts and special events at the venue, contributing to Freedom Hall’s role as a center for arts and community programming.

Dillard's service extended beyond civic organizations. She was a longtime member of Faith United Protestant Church. There, she participated in church leadership, music ministries, and youth programs. She also remained active in local schools and youth organizations, including the Girl Scouts.

Professionally, Dillard dedicated her career to education, working in the Chicago Heights School District 170 as a librarian and classroom teacher. She was known for her commitment to students and her belief in the importance of education.

In recognition of Dillard's contributions, she was inducted into the Park Forest Hall of Fame in 1999.

Dillard died May 28, 2022, at the age of 83. Her legacy continues to be felt throughout Park Forest through the institutions she helped shape, the spaces she supported, and the residents she served.