Judith C. Watkins

Judith C. Watkins, 84, of Henry Illinois, died on August 1, 2023 at Lasalle County Nursing Home in Ottawa Illinois. Born on March 17, 1939 in Buda Illinois to the Late Forrest and Edythe (Grubb) Olson, she married Vernon “Gene” Watkins on November 29, 1959 in Buda.  Vernon died on December 1, 2014, two days after their 55th anniversary.

Judy was a bookkeeper for Saint Joseph’s Nursing Home for over 35 years. She also was a farmer’s wife, taking care of the children, home and the other chores around the farm. In her younger days, Judy was a 4H leader for the Robert’s Township Happy-Go-Lucky group, a member of Varna women’s club and always loved to cook, bake, and can food.

Judy is survived by her children Deborah Shelton of Lacon, Sheila (Greg) Scherder of Troy Missouri, Scot Watkins of Magnolia Illinois; daughter-in-law Michele Watkins of Bloomington Illinois; grandkids, Ryan, Jessica, Samantha, Brandee, Ethan, Hannah, Maggie, & Dylen; and great grandchildren Weston, Rowan, Emmersyn, Avalynn, Quinn, Ayla, and Willow. She was also preceded in death by her brother William Olson, sisters Barbara Simpson & Margaret Matson, and son Dennis Watkins.

Funeral services for Judy will be held Monday, August 7 at Henry Methodist Church at 11 AM with Will Meachum officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the Henry cemetery. Memorials can be made to MSW Projects of Henry or her church and online condolences can be left at lenzmemorialhome.com