Judith Batusich Obituary

Judith A. Batusich (nee Gale)
A lifelong resident of Crest Hill and dedicated public servant to the residents of Crest Hill and Lockport Township, passed away peacefully with her family by her side at Lightways Hospice on Monday, March 16, 2026, at the age of 84. Judy is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Jim Batusich. Her cherished children John (Jill) Batusich, Jimmy (Tara) Batusich and Jill (Joe) Egizio. Her beloved grandchildren Jake (Megan) Batusich, Joseph Batusich (Brenna Hayes), Janae, Jenna (Will) Eklove, Joie Egizio (Brandon Leidolph) and Ty Batusich. She was the proud great-grandmother of Kane Eklove. Judy is also survived by her brother Michael (Madonna) Gale, her sister Mary Ann Koerner, her brother-in-law Thomas Giarrante and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Judy was preceded in death by her parents Michael and Lillian (nee Hochevar) Gale, her sister Rose Giarrante (2023), her sister-in-law Donna Cwudzinski (2021) and her brother-in-law James Koerner (2014). Judy devoted much of her life to public service and the betterment of her community. She made history as the first Alderwoman for the City of Crest Hill, serving from 1977 to 1981. She later served as Lockport Township Trustee (1980–1989), Lockport Township Assessor (1989–1996) and ultimately Lockport Township Supervisor from 1996 until her retirement on May 31, 2011. Throughout her many years in office, Judy was committed to improving the lives of township residents, particularly seniors. Beginning in 1976 and continuing through her retirement in 2011, Judy was actively involved in the Democratic Party. Her civic engagement extended well beyond elected office. She was a proud member of the Lockport Woman's Club, the Lockport, Romeoville, and Crest Hill Chambers of Commerce, A.A.R.P., Township Officials of Illinois, Illinois Assessor Association and Crest Hill Woman's Civic League. Judy also served the community through numerous boards and committees, including the Will County Public Aid Board, Central Square Committee, where she served as Chairperson, Lockport Township Utility Board, also as Chairperson, Fairmont Partnership Board, Northeastern Agency Livable Study Committee Board, Will County Senior Service Nutrition Advisory Board, Advisory Board of the Will County Block Grant Program, Advisory Board of Will County Community Concerns, Will County Paratransit Study Board, Caton Farm/Bruce Road Study Committee Board, and the Senior Advisory Board. Judy took particular pride in advocating for and improving services for area seniors. In recognition of her dedication, Gale Gardens at the Affordable Senior Housing Development was named in her honor. She was also instrumental in establishing the Senior Bus Transportation System for Lockport Township residents and during her time as Lockport Township Trustee, she worked to coordinate multiple police departments in implementing the Care Trac Rescue Program. Outside of her civic responsibilities, Judy's greatest joy was her family. She and Jim treasured time spent with their grandchildren, proudly attending their sporting events and other activities. Judy also enjoyed hosting family and friends for backyard pool parties and traveling whenever possible. A special thank you to Lightways Hospice and Judy's caregivers, Stephanie and Kim for the love, dignity and comfort they provided. Funeral services will be held from the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Wednesday, March 25th at 10:30 A.M. to the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, 604 N. Raynor Ave., at 11:00 A.M. for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 24th from 2:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. and Wednesday morning from 9:30 A.M. until 10:30 A.M. Memorials to Project Fire Buddies (projectfirebuddies.org) or Lightways Hospice will be appreciated. For information please call (815) 744-0022 or visit www.CHSFUNERAL.com