Danielle C. Watkins

Danielle C. "Dani" Watkins, 75, of Pekin, passed away peacefully at 10:59 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at her home. Born on September 7, 1949, in Peoria to Elwood and Virginia (Abbott) Saylor, Dani lived a vibrant life filled with love, faith, and family.

Dani married Terry Lutz in 1968 in Creve Coeur and later wed Michael Watkins on October 28, 1996, in San Diego, CA. Michael preceded her in death on April 24, 2019. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Stan Saylor, and sister, Rhonda Poff.

She is survived by her son, Brian (Jenessa) Lutz of Pekin; daughter, Penny (Brian) Cunningham of Pekin; six grandchildren, Trinity Lutz, Hunter Lutz, Christopher Gathman, Jeremy Gathman, Kelsey (Kevin) Sheahan, and Ashley Watkins; one great-grandchild, Tucker Gathman; her dear friend, Rhonda "Suzie" Barrow; sisters, Teresa Montgomery and Madonna (Duane) Westhafer, both of Pekin; brother-in-law, Brad Poff, and sister-in-law, Cathy Saylor, both of Creve Coeur; beloved nieces and nephews, Perry Montgomery, Nicholas Saylor, Alex Jacobson, Allison Stetler, and several great-nieces and nephews; and her loyal k9 companion, Murphy.

A devoted member of Bethel United Church of Christ, Dani served on the church council and found joy in her faith. She loved reading, traveling, and was renowned for her culinary talents, especially her legendary fried chicken and Christmas cookies. Christmas was her favorite time of year, when she decked her home to the hilt, creating cherished memories with her family. Danis love for her family was boundless, and her warmth will be deeply missed.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 13, 2025, at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory in Pekin, with Rev. Jan Johnson officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. prior to the service. Inurnment will follow at Sand Prairie Cemetery in Green Valley, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethel United Church of Christ, TAPS, American Cancer Society, or Nudge Tyra Foundation.

Danis legacy of love, laughter, and delicious meals will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.