OBITUARY FROM BURNS FUNERAL HOME WEBSITE:
Kaitlin Elizabeth Carter-Watkins, age 38, of Hobart, Indiana, was born on March 8, 1988, in Merrillville, Indiana, to Mark and Cindy Carter. Known lovingly as Katie, she was first and foremost a loving and devoted mother, and also a cherished daughter, little sister, aunt, cousin and friend. She was deeply rooted in family and tradition, finding her greatest joy in time spent surrounded by those she loved. Whether through holidays, gatherings, or everyday moments, her family meant everything to her, and time spent together was something she held close to her heart.
Growing up Katie excelled in competitive swimming and showing horses, both of which carried with her throughout her life.
Katie was passionate about making a meaningful impact on others’ lives. She spent her career working in special education, where her care, compassion, and dedication touched many. More recently, she expanded her love of cooking by attending culinary school, where she was awarded a Certificate of Achievement in recognition of her academic performance.
Kaitlin is survived by her parents, Mark and Cindy Carter; brothers, Matthew Carter and Jacob Carter; nephew, Landon Carter; niece, Aiden Carter; beloved children, Carter and Georgia Watkins; and husband, Gene Watkins. She is also survived by her aunts, uncles, and numerous cousins.
She was preceded in death by her Aunt Becky and Uncle Larry Juzwicki; Uncle R.O. Razia; Great Aunt Mickey Shapley; cousin Madison Carter; and her grandparents from the Carter and Raiza families.
Katie will be remembered for her huge heart, free spirit, and infectious sense of humor. She cared deeply, loved fiercely, and lived authentically. Most importantly, Katie’s legacy will live on through her children, who carry her love, strength, and spirit forward.
Services celebrating Kaitlin's life will be held at Burns Funeral Home & Crematory 701 East 7th Street Hobart, Indiana 46342. Visitation will be held Monday, April 13, 2026, from 4:00 P.M. until a time of sharing at 6:30 P.M.
Please visit Katie's online guestbook and obituary at www.BurnsFuneral.com
This information and the picture below were obtained from: https://www.burnsfuneral.com/obituaries/kaitlin-carter-watkins/#!/Obituary. The picture above was obtained from the 2006 HHS Memories yearbook, made available by the Lake County Public Library, at: https://archive.org/details/HOHS2006Images/.
