Edna Hatcher Watkins, age 86, of Wallace passed from her earthly life to her eternal rest on Sunday, November 21, 2010 at her residence.

She was born November 17, 1924 in Duplin County and was the daughter of the late Walter Henry and Mamie Mae Lanier Hatcher. She was predeceased by her husband, Leonard Watkins; daughter, Mary Evelyn Watkins; grandson, Danny Glen Watkins; great grandson, Christopher Daven Watkins; brothers, Hubert Hatcher, Cecil Hatcher, Walter Hatcher, Howard Hatcher and James "Bud" Hatcher and uncle, Willie Hatcher.

Surviving are her devoted sons, Curly V. Watkins (Catherine) and Kilby W. Watkins, Sr. (Vanessa) both of Wallace; grandchildren, Carol Kelley (Maurice), Jenelle Wood (Johnny, Jr.), Christopher Watkins (Kelly), Clarissa Watkins and Kilby Watkins, Jr.(Amber), all of Wallace; great grandchildren, Dustin Watkins, Kaytlin Wood, Briley Kelley, Layton Watkins, Brianna Kelley, Spencer Wood and Brailan Kelley; sisters, Dorothy Sholar (Vernon) and Mary Lou Cavenaugh (Ray), all of Wallace and brother, Horace Hatcher (Barbara) of Wallace and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

The family will receive friends 11:00 am to 12:00 noon Wednesday November 24, 2010 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home, Wallace followed by the graveside service at 2:00 pm at Brice Family Cemetery, NC Hwy 41 East, Wallace with Reverend Larry Kelley officiating.

Casketbearers will be Mrs. Edna's grandsons and great grandsons: Dustin Watkins, Briley Kelley, Johnny Wood, Jr., Kilby Watkins, Jr., Spencer Wood, Stewart Rouse, Christopher Watkins and Layton Watkins.

Edna was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and aunt. She enjoyed the simplest things in life but her greatest joy was family. With a heart full of love, she gave of herself by lending a helping hand to whomever need it. Her favorite pastime was growing flowers, gardening and fishing. Edna was known to be the happiest when she was cooking for her family and having them altogether. She was a strong, courageous and yet gentle woman who brought out the good in all those who were near and dear to her. Edna's life enriched the world in which she lived and she will continue to live in our hearts forever.

Condolences may be sent to the Watkins' family below.