On December 12, 2017, the body of Susan L. Watson was discovered in Joliet, Illinois. Susan had been a lifelong ward of the state, having lived her entire life under its care due to significant medical and developmental challenges. Diagnosed with profound intellectual disabilities, as well as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, Susan led a life that was largely defined by her health conditions. Despite these challenges, she gave birth to a daughter in 1975 while she was institutionalized. However, this daughter was adopted immediately at birth, and both her name and full date of birth remain unknown.
Throughout her life, Susan had no known living relatives to care for her, which resulted in her becoming a ward of the state. This absence of immediate family continued to affect her after her death, as no relatives have come forward to claim her remains. Her case, recorded under Namus ID: UCP4885 and managed by the Will County Coroner's Office, has presented unique challenges in terms of closure and final arrangements. The Coroner’s Office, located at 16857 West Laraway Road in Joliet, Illinois, holds the case under agency number 17-0557, making every effort to resolve the case with dignity.
With Susan's passing, the Will County Coroner's Office continues to seek any information that may lead to connections with her past or potential family. They can be contacted via phone at 815-727-8455, and additional details regarding the case can be found on their official website. As the case remains open, it underscores the broader societal challenge of providing care and closure for individuals who, like Susan, navigate life without the support of a family network.
Date Found: 12/12/2017
