Crest Hill, Lockport Township Mourn Loss of Longtime Public Servant

Judith A. Batusich served the community in various roles for over 30 years before retiring in 2011.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 11:18pm

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Lifelong Crest Hill resident Judith A. Batusich, who served as the city of Crest Hill's first alderwoman, a Lockport Township trustee, assessor, and supervisor over a 34-year career in public service, has passed away at the age of 82. Batusich was remembered as a "strong and steady leader" who made lasting impacts on her community, including launching affordable senior housing and a township senior bus program.

Why it matters

Batusich's long tenure in local government and her dedication to improving the lives of seniors and other residents of Crest Hill and Lockport Township highlight the important role that committed public servants can play in shaping a community over decades. Her passing marks the end of an era for the area.

The details

Batusich served in a variety of elected and appointed roles, including as Crest Hill's first alderwoman from 1977 to 1981, a Lockport Township trustee from 1980 to 1989, the township assessor from 1989 to 1996, and the township supervisor from 1996 until her retirement in 2011. She was also active in the Democratic Party and involved with numerous local organizations and boards focused on seniors, community development, and public services.

  • Batusich served as Crest Hill's first alderwoman from 1977 to 1981.
  • She was a Lockport Township trustee from 1980 to 1989.
  • Batusich served as the Lockport Township assessor from 1989 to 1996.
  • She was the Lockport Township supervisor from 1996 until her retirement on May 31, 2011.

The players

Judith A. Batusich

A lifelong resident of Crest Hill who served in various elected and appointed roles in local government, including as Crest Hill's first alderwoman, a Lockport Township trustee, assessor, and supervisor, over a 34-year career in public service.

Ray Soliman

The mayor of Crest Hill, who praised Batusich's accomplishments and said her legacy will be remembered for many years.

Alex Zapien

The current Lockport Township supervisor, who called Batusich a "strong and steady leader" whose presence shaped the direction of the township for years.

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What they’re saying

“Judy was a well-respected resident of Crest Hill who dedicated her life to improving the quality of life to all of the residents of Lockport Township.”

— Ray Soliman, Mayor of Crest Hill

“Lockport Township stands on the shoulders of giants, and Supervisor Judy Batusich was certainly one of them. She was a strong and steady leader whose presence shaped the direction of the Township for years. Her legacy left a lasting impact on both the township office and the residents she served.”

— Alex Zapien, Lockport Township Supervisor

“Supervisor Batusich led with purpose, care and a deep commitment to public service. She will be remembered very fondly by the township and by the many residents whose lives she touched.”

— Alex Zapien, Lockport Township Supervisor

What’s next

Batusich's funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 20th at 10:30 AM at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus in Joliet, Illinois, followed by interment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.

The takeaway

Judith Batusich's decades-long career in public service, including her pioneering role as Crest Hill's first alderwoman and her leadership in launching key community programs, demonstrates the lasting impact that dedicated local officials can have on improving the lives of residents. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to shape the Crest Hill and Lockport Township communities she served.