Deborah Kay Watkins

Late into the night of June 21, 2025, Deborah Kay Watkins took the hand of her beloved husband, J.C. Watkins once again, and they began their eternal journey together. Born November 12th, 1956, she was Deborah always with an "h", Debby never with an "ie", Mom as I and my brothers Chris and Jacob have always known her, and lastly Grandma as my son knew her. However, or whenever you knew her, you felt and knew her kindness, her love, her spunk, her stubbornness, her devotion, and the beautiful sparkle in her hazel eyes. Mom loved us all so much, no matter the distance or the time, no matter your beliefs, and no matter where you came from. If you needed a friend or family, she was now your confidant, your sister, your mom, or your grandma, no questions asked.

She liked to bake, sew, read about antiques and collectible glass and jewelry, and go thrift shopping. Thrifting was an enjoyable hobby for her bourne from her years in resale and retail, and she had a keen eye for the hidden gems at yardsales that helped her fill her home with beautiful memories and personal treasures.

She is survived by her daughter Jennifer(David) Reitz, her grandson Damian Reitz, her sons Chris and Jacob Watkins; Sisters Shirley Cocke, Betty Wells, Martha(Pat) Smith, Mary Sardegna; her heart sister Diana Brotherton, brother-in-law Francis(Sue)Watkins, many nieces and nephews including Tina(Darian)Treadway, Kim Wells, Donna(Mike)Orange, Troy Cocke and Gene Smith; many grand nieces and nephews, a few great grand nieces and nephews, and many friends. She also has two fur-grands named Honeybun and Mavis who are grieving her fiercely.

She is preceded in death by her husband, J.C. Watkins, her father Naamen Maxey, her mother Vergie Maxey, her sisters Shelby Cooper and Elizabeth Jane Glass, and her brothers-in-law Willard Cocke and Bobby Wells.

Mom didn't want a big memorial or funeral service due to the distances some friends and family would have to traverse. Instead, she hoped we would have a couple of relaxed gatherings both in her current home state of Wisconsin and in her beloved birth state of Virginia. Her hope is that we will gather, break bread, share stories, memories, laughter, and maybe a few tears together at a later date.