Michele Renee Watkins

March 9, 1958 – March 23, 2026 | Age 68

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Michele Renee Watkins, age 68, on March 23, 2026. Michele was the heart of her family and a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, touching the lives of many who called her “Mom,” “Granny,” or “Mawmaw.”

Michele was a loving and devoted mother to Barbara and her husband Jimmy Johnson, and Stephenie and her husband Ryan Ward, and a cherished figure in the lives of many others who looked to her as family. She was a proud grandmother to Aaron, Eden, Enoch, Ellie, and Evie, and a treasured great-grandmother to Avery and Marina. Michele’s family extended far and wide, and her love and guidance were a constant in the lives of all she touched.

She also found joy in life’s simple pleasures — she loved scratch-off tickets, looked forward to a yearly birthday trip to the casino, and cherished every moment with her beloved pets, eight of whom will rest with her.

She is survived by her dear siblings, Kay and Jack. She was preceded in death by her mother, Catherine Jo-Ann Thompson Montoney, her father, Darrius Warder Thompson, and her brother, Bob Thompson.

A graveside service and burial will be held at Greenlawn Cemetery on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.

Michele’s love was boundless, her presence comforting, and her spirit vibrant. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, laughter, and unconditional love that will continue to guide her family and friends every day.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the GoFundMe under Stephenie Ward: https://gofund.me/2779f93d1⁠�

Forever loved. Forever missed.