Brenda Watkins

She was born in Gadsden on May 18, 1942 and was a graduate and salutatorian of Emma Samson High School.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents Lily Mae and Biddy Garman, sisters Joyce Martin and Judith Faye and survived by her brother David Gartman.

She married the love of her life Richard Joseph Watkins on August 6, 1960. They were married for over 65 years and is survived by him, her three children, Richard Joseph Watkins Jr (Teresa), Jonathan David Watkins and Amy Elizabeth Watkins (Mark), five grandchildren, Richard Joseph Watkins 3rd (Rachael), Sarah Watkins, Jordan Loftis, Jared Loftis (Christy) and Jayden Loftis. She recently celebrated the birth of her first great grandchild, Avril Josephine Loftis.

Brenda Watkins was a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother, and a true original. She poured her heart into her family, her deserts, and her art—surrounding her home with love, laughter, and more porcelain figurines and blue willow dishes than anyone could count. A talented painter and fierce Canasta competitor, Brenda had a sharp wit and a playful spirit. She may not have always remembered where she parked, but she always knew how to make people feel at home. Her life was full of color—whether in the art she created, the meals she cooked, or the stories she told. She shared a lifelong love with her husband, Richard, whom she met at just 14 (he liked her earrings). They married in 1960 and traveled the world together—from Las Vegas to Greece to every charming Southern city in between—before settling back in Gadsden, where their journey began. A faithful member of The Church at Wills Creek, Brenda also taught children’s Sunday School at Malone Baptist Church for over 20 years, sharing her love, patience, and gentle wisdom with generations of young hearts. Brenda also had a soft spot for her dogs Pepper, Muffin, and especially her beloved Molly, who survives her. She lived a life rich with love, friendship, faith, and joy, and she will be deeply missed by everyone blessed enough to know her.

A visitation for Brenda will be held Tuesday, September 30, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Collier-Butler Funeral Home, 824 Rainbow Drive, Gadsden, AL 35901, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 PM.

Brenda will be laid to rest in Forrest Cemetery, 700 S 15Th St, Gadsden, Alabama 35901-3823.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Church At Wills Creek Food Pantry, Gadsden, Alabama