Shirley JoAnn Watkins' Obituary
Shirley Joann Watkins
November 9, 1936 – February 21, 2025
Shirley Joann Watkins, 88, of Allen, TX, passed away on February 21, 2025. She was born in Tahlequah, OK, to parents Arvin (Butch) and Gretchen Fritts. On November 17, 1956, she married the love of her life, Norman Watkins, and they shared many wonderful years together.
Shirley was a devoted member of her church, Northrich Baptist, and found great joy in singing in the choir. She loved spending time with friends and family, enjoying hobbies such as bowling, playing cards, and of late bingo. She was known for her kind heart, warm smile, home cooking, and the love she shared with everyone around her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Norman Watkins; her parents, Arvin (Butch) and Gretchen Fritts; her brothers, Robert, Arthur, Preston, and Norwood; and her sister, Marie.
Shirley leaves behind a loving family to cherish her memory: her son, Lynn Watkins and his wife, Gina, of Sachse, TX; her daughter, Jody Harper and husband Doug of Jasper, TN; her grandchildren, Josh Watkins and his wife, Lynn, of Josephine, TX; Cody Watkins and his wife, Lori, of Caddo Mills, TX; and Aubree Harper of Jasper, TN. She is also survived by seven great-grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren, multiple nieces and nephews and her dear sister, Mamie Raschke, of Valparaiso, IN.
Shirley’s warmth and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now reunited with those who passed before her.
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