Obituary of Susan J. Watkins

Susan J. Watkins

Age 82, of Joliet, Illinois and formerly of California, passed from this life on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at St. Joseph Medical Center.

Susan was born March 29, 1944 to the late Virginia and August Decman in Joliet, where she was raised and educated. 

She married Russell Watkins and they spent most of their years together in California with a few stops along the way.

Susan was a church secretary for several years, but truly found her calling as a care giver to children and adults alike.  Her kind and caring nature led her to comforting those who were ailing, sometimes by simply just being a careful listener and confidant.

She is survived by her sister, Margaret James of Oregon; sister-in-law, Beverly Decman of Joliet, and several nieces and nephews, as well as her cousins.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Russell Watkins; parents, and two brothers, William Decman and Stephen Decman.

As it was Susan's request, cremation rites will be accorded and her final earthly remains will be placed with those of her late husband Russell at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.