Ms. Mary Watkins was born on November 25, 1947, at Cook County Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, and departed this life on September 14, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. She was the beloved daughter of Curtis and Montine Watkins.

Mary was deeply loved by all who knew her. She will be remembered for her quick wit, warm humor, and steadfast love for family and friends. A devoted mother, she gave her only son, Dr. Torrence Watkins, the chance to pursue a better life, guiding him with resilience and faith to defy the odds. She later found joy in the sunshine of Arizona, alongside her cherished cat, and in the company of her grandson, Xavier Almoro-Watkins, who brought her great pride.

The youngest of six siblings, Mary was preceded in death by all of her brothers and sisters. She is survived by her son, Dr. Torrence Watkins; her grandson, Xavier; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, and extended family, including Rick Ross, Edgar Watkins, Letretia Ayers, Timothy Watkins, Deborah Henderson, Charles Watkins, Robert Earl Jones, Michael Jones, and Olivia Graham.

Mary was a graduate of Dunbar High School and furthered her studies at Prairie State College. She worked faithfully at Levolor Blind Company in South Holland, Illinois, and later at Continental Midland in Park Forest, Illinois, until her retirement.

Her love of music was a lifelong source of joy, especially Motown and gospel. She was a devoted follower of Reverend Richard Henton and worshipped with the Shining Star Missionary Baptist Church family in Chicago.

Funeral services will be held in her hometown of Chicago, Illinois, in November 2025, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her life and legacy.

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