Nancy Watkins Andrews passed away on Tuesday, August 16, 2022 from cancer. She was born January 21, 1932 in Salisbury, MD, as Nancy Virginia Powell. Nan’s parents died when she was very young, and she was raised by her grandparents and other relatives. It was not an easy childhood.
Nan married, moved to Atlanta, GA, and had three sons. In 1972, the family moved to Jackson, MS, where she quickly established herself as a vital part of the community, and a leader in the hospitality industry. Never afraid of hard work, Nan was a school patrol officer, bookkeeper, bridal model for McRae’s, fragrance salesperson, PTA board member, and the first microwave oven demonstrator in Jackson. She was the president of every neighborhood Home Owners Association she ever lived in, and always made significant improvements for her fellow homeowners.
Nan was the Hostess for the Mississippi State Capitol for over 30 years, and the President of the National Association of State Capitol Hostesses. She loved her job, and interacted with many state, national, and international government officials, as well as many actors, musicians, and other celebrities. She was a wonderful ambassador for Mississippi.
Nan was a loving, caring person who never met a stranger. She faced tough times head first with strength and determination, without complaint. She might bend a little, but would never break.
Nan’s greatest joy was being a mother to her boys. She was always involved in her sons’ school, sports, and extracurricular activities. She encouraged them, inspired them, and disciplined them when needed. She set a fine example, and all three have become successful in their careers and as parents. Nan’s grandchildren have also been very successful in their professions, and are great parents. Her legacy is strong.
She is survived by her sons, Jim Watkins of Houston, TX, Randy Watkins of Madison, MS, Wes Watkins of Brandon, MS; their spouses; five grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and a great number of friends across the entire state of Mississippi. She will be missed.
Visitation will be held at Parkway Funeral Home on Saturday, August 20, 2022 from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon with the funeral service to immediately follow in the chapel. Burial will follow in Parkway Memorial Cemetery.
Donations in Nan’s memory may be made to the Central Mississippi Down Syndrome Society at P.O. Box 935, Jackson, MS 39205.
