Lynn A. Watkins

The family of Lynn A. Watkins, of Taylor, is saddened to announce her passing on Friday, August 11, 2023 at the age of 71 years.

Beloved wife of JD Watkins who preceded her in death in 2019. Loving sister of Lois (Ian) Williamson, Robin (Doug) James, and Christin Russell. Dear sister-in-law of Gidget Davis. Cherished aunt of Sarah, Jenn (Ben), Andrew, Cori, Heather (Kevin), Colin, Chloe, Douglas (Brianne), Valeta, Barry, Brenda, Bryan, and Leola/Krissy. Dearest great aunt of Cameron, Claire, Benjamin, Audrey, Olivia, Nora, Elaina, and Joel. Lynn is also survived by many extended family members including her aunts and uncles Bob (Karen) Dyer and Dick (Linda) Dyer as well as her cousins Marc, Penny, Michael, Rick, and Susannah.

Lynn was born on August 19, 1951 to Richard and BettyJane Fahnestock and lived in Parma Heights, Ohio before the family eventually moved to Michigan. She grew up in Taylor, Michigan and was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School.

Lynn had a love for life and a deep passion for the people around her. She was an educator and passionately embraced the Montessori model of teaching and caring for children. The foundation of Montessori is an emphasis on allowing children to follow their interests and highlights hands-on learning. Lynn's dedication to this learning model made her popular both in the classroom and family gatherings. She was the fun aunt. She was always ready to accept the challenge of a puzzle or an eye-spy book with her nieces and nephews. As an educator, Lynn devoted her life to listening, observing, and putting the needs of children first.

Her passion for people extended outside the classroom. Spurred on by her grandmother, Lynn developed into an accomplished letter writer and regularly corresponded with friends and family. She was sure to send thank you notes after a gift was received and always sent out Christmas cards. Lynn remembered the special occasions in people's lives and a card or note would show up in their mailbox.

Many different causes received her patronage over the years but two were notably special to Lynn. She was an active member of Soroptimist International, which is an organization that seeks to encourage and support women through education and training so that they can receive economic empowerment and live better lives. Lynn also loved being a member of the Wyandotte Yacht Club. Her dear husband, JD, was a sailor and they loved boating together. They faithfully served in many different leadership roles throughout their time with the club.

After all the work and activity of her day, Lynn was ready to wind down while watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!. It was common knowledge in the family that she'd answer most Jeopardy! questions correctly and thought about auditioning but figured it was harder than it looked while sitting on the couch.

Lynn will be sincerely missed by her family and friends.

Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 beginning at 12:00 PM until the 3:00 PM Memorial Service at Solosy Funeral Home.