Barbara Ann Watkins' Obituary
On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Barbara Ann Watkins passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love and comfort of her devoted family.
Born on June 27, 1945, in Dallas, Texas, Barbara Ann Williams was the cherished daughter of the late Samuel Williams and Lucille Stevenson (affectionately known as Madea). She was the beloved middle child of three and spent her formative years in Dallas alongside her older brother, Arthur Lee McCurry—lovingly known as Mac, raised in part by Mama Lily and Eugene Reed. Barbara often reminisced about the joyful mischief she and Mac got into during their youth. Their bond was lifelong, even after Mac enlisted in the US Air Force and made California his home.
Barbara had a special bond with her brothers, one filled with laughter, teasing, and unforgettable moments. She loved to tell the story of Tommy’s prized possession—a white ’56 Chevy pickup truck that he was so proud of. Barbara, never one to let a moment pass without a little humor, would climb into that truck and poke fun at the flimsy cardboard sun visors that flapped in the wind, joking that they were more for decoration than function. Those joyrides, full of laughter and sibling banter, became a cherished memory—just one example of the warmth and fun that defined her relationships with her brothers. Whether they were cruising around town or just sitting together swapping stories, their time together was always full of love and lighthearted mischief.
From a young age, Barbara demonstrated a deep commitment to learning. A bright and focused student, she graduated from Lincoln High School in 1963. Not long after, she married the love of her life, Eugene Watkins, on December 27, 1965. Their union was blessed with the birth of their beloved son, Bobby Ray Watkins, on November 2, 1969.
Barbara built a meaningful and impactful career that spanned decades. She began at Margo LaMode as a sales clerk from 1967 to 1970, then transitioned to Dallas Federal, where she climbed the ranks from teller to Supervisor of the Audit Department before retiring in 1990. Retirement, however, never slowed her down. She went on to serve as Assistant Director of Property Records at the FDIC until her second retirement in 1996. A dedicated and respected professional, Barbara was once again called into service in 1998 by her dear friend Susan Mather-Pardue to join the Dallas Central Appraisal District (DCAD). As Supervisor of Property Records and Exemptions, she led with excellence, earning the prestigious Employee of the Year Award in 2009 before her final retirement in 2011.
After relocating to Scroggins, Texas, Barbara continued to be an active and generous member of her community. She became a notary, assisted the Marion County Tax Office on special projects, and volunteered with her local NAACP chapter, always seeking to uplift and serve others.
Barbara’s life was a beautiful reflection of grace, strength, and love. Her radiant spirit, infectious laughter, and wise counsel left a mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was known for her sharp wit, warm heart, and unwavering support of those she loved. Family meant everything to Barbara, and she never missed a moment to encourage, guide, or uplift those within her circle.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration. Barbara is survived by her dear brother, Tommy Stevenson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and treasured friends—all of whom will continue to carry her memory in their hearts.
Barbara Ann Watkins lived a full, vibrant, and blessed life. Though she has departed this earthly home, her light will forever shine in the lives she touched.
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