Linda Stevens Watkins

Linda Stevens Watkins, 81, of Greensboro, N.C., passed away on Friday, July 3, 2026, from complications following a long and courageous battle with multiple sclerosis. Born on March 31, 1945, in Winnsboro, S.C., she was the daughter of the late Mark and Jane Stevens.

In addition to her parents, Linda was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Strother Broome ("B" and "Straw") and Mr. and Mrs. Mark Lewis Stevens, as well as her sister; Elizabeth Stevens Sanders.

She is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Joe Watkins; her nephew, Mark Lewis Sanders of Columbia, S.C.; her nieces, Anne Watkins Luker of Concord, N.C., and Mary Watkins Peeler of Belmont, N.C; her great-nephews, Seth Burns Luker and Nolan Thomas Peeler; and her great-nieces, Elizabeth Brice Sanders, Elizabeth Day Luker; and Cooper Grace Peeler.

Linda graduated from Winthrop College with degrees in English and Elementary Education. She devoted 39 years to teaching, including 29 years at Greensboro Day School, where she taught kindergarten and first grade. She possessed a remarkable gift for helping children learn to read and took great pride in teaching them to become "Good Classroom Citizens." Countless former students and their families remember her with gratitude and affection.

A devoted member of First Presbyterian Church in Greensboro, Linda was active in the Agape Sunday School Class, the Mary and Martha Circle, and the Tuesday Book Club. She faithfully volunteered in the church kitchen for Wednesday evening dinners, served in the church library, and shared her love of children as a Vacation Bible School teacher.

Although Linda had no children of her own, she loved every child whose life she touched through teaching, church, or friendships-except, as she often joked, perhaps during the two years she taught eighth grade. Her warmth, patience, and gentle spirit left a lasting impression on generations of young people.

Linda loved spending time outdoors and especially enjoyed day hikes that ended with a comfortable hotel, a wonderful dinner; and a glass of wine. She and Joe explored many of Europe's most beautiful destinations and treasured many Christmas holidays spent in Bermuda with dear friends. Together, they also hiked through most of the national parks -in the western United States-and several in Canada, creating memories that brought them great joy.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 22 in the Multi Purpose Room at River Landing at Sandy Ridge, 1575 John Knox Drive, Colfax NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the River Landing Resident Fund, 1575 John Knox Drive, Colfax, NC 27235, Attn: Michelle Jones.