Nora Ann Buckley Watson

Nora Buckley Watson, 71, of Marengo, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, from natural causes. A beloved partner, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Nora will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her tireless work ethic, and the warmth and strength that she brought to everyone who knew her.

Born on July 7, 1954, in Woodstock, Illinois, Nora was the daughter of Edwin and Frances Buckley, a proud local family who instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and compassion--values that would define her life. She graduated from Marian Central High School before continuing her education at Webber International University, where she earned her degree and began a lifelong commitment to professional excellence.

For over 40 years, Nora worked as a legal secretary for attorneys across McHenry County, where her precision, organizational skills, and sense of responsibility earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. She was the person others turned to when things needed to get done--the one who stayed calm, found solutions, and followed through with grace. Those who worked with her knew they could always depend on her; those who loved her knew they could always count on her.

Beyond her professional life, Nora found joy and peace in her garden. She spent countless hours tending to her flowers, finding beauty in every petal and satisfaction in each season's new life. Her love of baking filled her home with warmth and sweetness, just as her love for her grandchildren filled it with laughter and lessons. Nora cherished her time with them, teaching by example how to live fully--with compassion, integrity, and love.

Above all else, Nora's heart belonged to her partner, Ernie Johnson. Together they built a life grounded in mutual devotion and daily affection. She was the constant--always just a call or text away--a comforting presence to those she loved. Nora is survived by her partner Ernie Johnson; her daughter Magan Watson and her children Julian, Nessa, Corbin; her son Zachary (Aubry) Johnson and their daughter Emma; her siblings Sheila Buckley Veltus and Kevin (Mary) Buckley. Nora was preceded in death by her brother Brian Buckley.

Funeral services will be held at the Marengo-Union Funeral Home, 505 E Grant Hwy., Marengo on October 16, from 4 to 8pm, with a private burial on October 17 at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

You will be missed dearly, Nora. Our memories with you will hold close to our family's hearts forever.