Brigette Watkins, age 47, of Valparaiso, passed away Wednesday, July 13, 2016 at Porter Regional Hospital. Brigette was born on May 28, 1969 to Frank Smolek and Sherry Sullivan. Brigette loved the outdoors. She spent all her free time camping and fishing at the lake. Her grandchildren were the center of her world. Brigette will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, niece and friend.

Brigette is survived by her husband, Lance Watkins; mother, Sherry Sullivan; daughters, Erika (Chris) Robison, Brittany Winter; step son, Lance Watkins; step daughters, Ashley (Carl) Toyne, Alexis Watkins, Bailey Watkins; grandchildren, London, Carter, Liam, Lincoln; step grandchild, Aven; brothers, Brian Smolek, Derek Smolek, David Smolek; sister, Colett Follmer; special Uncle Rocky Sullivan, and many other loving family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her son, Jacob Hennings; father, Frank Smolek; and sister, Debra Pouch.

A funeral service for Brigette will take place Sunday, July 17, 2016 at 7:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Avenue, Portage, IN 46368 with Pastor Mark Hostetler officiating. Cremation will follow. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 17, 2016 from 2:00 pm until the time of service at the funeral home. For more information, please call 219-762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.