Linda K. ""Nana"" Watson's Obituary
CHARLESTON, IL - Linda Kay Watson, age 72 of Charleston, left her earthly home while lovingly surrounded by her family on Friday, April 4, 2014 while at the Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home in Mattoon. Visitation for family and friends will be held this evening, Monday, April 7, 2014 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston. The Funeral Service honoring and celebrating her life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at the funeral chapel with Pastor Kenny Hughes officiating. Burial will follow in the Maple Hill Cemetery in Westfield, Illinois. It is requested that thoughtful donations in her honor be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to St. Jude Children's Hospital. Gifts may be left on the memorial table at the visitation or service or mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL 61920. Linda was born on November 12, 1941to the late Leo and Kathryn (Hibschman) Hendrix. She and John Watson were just "kids" when they married on June 19, 1959 and as a result of their unending love and devotion to one another they have celebrated nearly 55 years of marriage and friendship. In addition to John she is survived by their four children, Tami Lemons and husband Terry, Pam Watson-Taylor and spouse Tammi, Cindy Amstutz and husband Thom, all of Charleston and John Watson and wife Kristen of Mattoon; 12 grandchildren, Jenna and partner Keith, T.J., Matthew and wife Heather, Thomas, Jessica and fiancé Cameron and Kelsee and partner Fred, all of Charleston, Luke, Emily and Jacob, all of Mattoon, Kayti and partner Benji of Colorado, Kristan and Brandon of Indiana; 7 great-grandchildren, Alanna, Blaine, Carlie, Malachi, Zane, S.J. and Takoda; a sister, Kathy Grove of Oregon; a special cousin who was more like a sister, Marianna Anderson of Oreana, IL; a brother-in-law, Bob Watson; a sister-in-law, Sharon Hendrix of Hindsboro, IL; and nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brother, Garry Hendrix. When Linda, or more affectionately known as "Nana" , decided to open her daycare in 1960 little did she know the positive impact she would have in the lives of hundreds of children and parents in the Charleston community. For the next 46 years she opened up her home and her heart as she lovingly cared for children who became "her own" - she was truly their second mom! When you walked into Nana's home she would undoubtedly be holding a baby or have little ones on her lap - she was truly a blessing for all the parents who were reassured that their children were not only being cared for but were in a home that overflowed with unconditional love and support. The entire Watson family became involved with helping as their family continued to grow larger with the addition of each new daycare child - many of whom they are still close to and consider to be nearly siblings. Those who grew up in Nana's home fondly remember the countless hugs and kisses, the specially prepared snacks and treats and the backyard that some called the "Secret Garden" where many hours were spent playing. Others remember her "Snow Babies" collection which was started with a gift by one of her daycare families and quickly grew to hundreds. But all remember the same tender love and affection, the generosity and her selflessness on a daily basis as she was such a positive influence and role model in their lives. Linda attended the First Church of God in Charleston. She also enjoyed spending time with her Chocolate Lab - "Koko" . Her own family was her priority as well and they have received the same unconditional love and affection and support throughout their entire life. Linda was sincere and honest, and all that she did was done with a humble and loving spirit. The best lessons she taught about unconditionally loving and unselfishly giving to others are demonstrated in the lives of her family, her friends, her daycare kids and all those who loved her and fondly remember her.
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