Edith L. Watkins

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edith L. Watkins, who slipped away peacefully on September 11, 2026, enveloped by the love of her family. Born on June 6, 1941, in Orange, NJ, Edith's life was a testament to grace, resilience, and unwavering love, even in the face of her courageous battle with dementia and Alzheimer's. Daughter of Ruby Jackson and Eddie Williams, Edith was raised in a warm and nurturing environment, alongside her predeceased family members who paved the way before her: Edith Holmes, Ruby Jackson, Judith Ann Jackson, Joan Holmes, Delores Holmes, Alonzo Jackson, and Moses Hunter. A loving mother and grandmother, Edith is survived by her cherished children: Frederick D. Watkins of San Antonio, TX; Alecia Nicholson of Moore, OK; Shelley Watkins-Taylor of Irvington, NJ; Tonya Watkins-Johnson (Shannon) of Beaumont, TX; and Sonya Watkins of Anchorage, AK. She will be dearly missed by her grandchildren, Giovanni Watkins, Brittany Watkins, Jahmal Watkins, Adriana Taylor, Keishaunna, Ky'era, and Kianna Johnson, as well as her great aunt Dorothy Thompson of South Hill, VA, and her sisters, Dorothy Alston, Emma Hunter, Nelly Girt and Vannessa Jackson. Nephews and Neices: Faith Holmes, Sylvia and Samad Alston, Qu'ran and Mecca Jackson, Daveion Hunter, her cousin, Carol Brown, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and friends will continue to carry her spirit forward. Edith Holmes married Fred Watkins on January 21, 1967 in Orange, NJ, and together they embarked on a journey that saw them raising four children and traveling across the globe as a military family. Though their paths later diverged, their friendship endured, and they remained devoted grandparents until Fred's passing in 2018. Edith's career began in retail at E.J. Corvettes in West Orange, NJ, and she worked part-time as an orderly at Orange Memorial Hospital. Once she married, her journey took her across continents, working at Frankfurt High School cafeteria in Germany and later with AAFES at Ft. Polk in Louisiana. Her dedication and skill led her to achieve a mastery certification in retail skills in Elizabeth, NJ. Edith eventually found her passion working at Target Corporation, where she dedicated herself until her retirement in 2011. A lifelong learner, Edith achieved her high school equivalent diploma while traveling as a military spouse. Her intellectual curiosity was matched by her love for books, music, and dance. Mariah Carey was her favorite singer, and she found joy in movies like "Imitation of Life" and TV shows like "Walker, Texas Ranger" and "Jeopardy." Edith's calm and reserved nature was a source of comfort, and her kindness and grace left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She cherished her family dearly, often expressing her affection with her favorite saying, "I love you back." A celebration of Edith's life will be held on September 26, 2026, at 9:00 AM at Shining Star Baptist Church, located at 590 Elgie St, Beaumont, TX, 77705. Flowers and cards are welcome. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Harbor Hospice for their unwavering support and encouragement during this difficult time. As we gather to remember Edith, let us carry her legacy of love, kindness, and resilience in our hearts. She will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will remain forever vibrant in the lives she touched.