Mary Watson

Mary C. Watson, 73, of Pekin, IL passed away at 9:10 AM Friday, February 5, 2016 at her home. Mary was born on December 10, 1942 in Pekin to Joseph and Dena (Weber) Bell. She was preceded in death by her parents, two infant daughters, Lisa Marie and Leslie Lee, one brother, Robert E. Bell, four sisters, Wilma Calhoun, Delores Spotser, Dorothy Erxleben and Bernadine Aquiniga. Surviving are: one son, Jeff (Debbie) Watson of Pekin; one daughter, Kim (Doug) Hoover of Pekin; two grandchildren, Aaron Hoover of Japan and Hannah Hoover of Pekin; one step grandson, Nathan Crawford; one brother, Joseph J. Bell of Tupelo, MS; three sisters, Blanche Stockert of Pekin, Carol Miller of Green Valley and Norma Davis of Edwards, IL. Mary enjoyed camping, fishing, going on picnics and shopping. She was the only one of ten siblings to graduate from high school, graduating in 1960. She was a social worker for the state of Illinois in the 60's and 70's. Mary was an incredible woman who raised her children as a single mother. She provided them with all the love and support they needed and couldn't have been prouder to be a mom. She left her children with beautiful memories that they will always cherish, especially all the memories at the Mackinaw River. When she became a grandma, for the first time, she was overjoyed. That grandson is now living out his dream in Kyoto, Japan. Mary beamed when she spoke of him. Then she became a grandma, for the second time, and was excited to have a granddaughter. That girl has "serious dance moves and impressions." Mary was always entertained. She was so proud of her grandchildren. Mary proved to her family how brave and courageous she was these last few months. After being a three time cancer survivor and surviving a stroke and heart attack she ended her fight graciously and was anxious to meet Our Lord in heaven. Mary was a pinochle of strength and pure love to her family. She passed peacefully in her own home surrounded by her family and dog Suzy who never left her side. A special thank you to Hospice Compassus for making her final days comfortable in her own home. Also a special thank you to Community Care for providing the most caring personal assistant, Jen Holcomb, for Mary these last couple years. Cremation will be accorded with a celebration of life to be held at a later date. Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the Mary's family with the arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Illinois Cancer Care 8940 N Wood Sage Rd Peoria, IL 61615-7822 or Hospice Compassus 2000 W Pioneer Pkwy, Peoria, IL 61615. To send an online condolence go to www.Hendersonfuneralcare.com.