of Jonesboro, AR
November 3, 1938 - July 2, 2025
Donna Sue Watkins, a beloved mother, grandmother, and Jonesboro resident, passed away peacefully at home on the morning of July 2, 2025, at the age of 86. Known for her sharp mind, gentle heart, and deep love for her family and community, Donna's life was a testament to resilience, generosity, and the joy found in simple things.
Donna was born on November 3, 1938, in sharecropper's shack in Lorado, AR. From those modest beginnings, she grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work, honesty, and grit. She attended the one-room Crossroads School in Lorado and later graduated from Jonesboro High School. It was in Jonesboro where she met the love of her life, David Watkins. The two built a beautiful life together and were married for 60 years until David's passing in 2016.
Together, Donna and David were the definition of a team. In the 1960's, they launched Quality Electric, followed by Watkins Electric in the 1980's, and eventually B&C Feed, Pool and Garden Supply. Donna wasn't just a businesswoman, she was the heart behind the operations. Whether it was helping a customer with a garden question or managing the books, she did it with grace, warmth, and a true desire to help.
Outside of work, Donna found her greatest joy in the quiet pleasures of reading and gardening, painting and art work. She was rarely without a good book and loved sharing her favorites with family. Her garden was her sanctuary, filled with flowers, vegetables, and the love and care she poured into every inch. It was a reflection of who she was: steady, nurturing, and full of life.
Donna is proceeded in death by her husband, David Watkins; her parents, Dillon and Evelyn (Roberts) Burrow; and her sister, Betty Wisdom.
She leaves behind two children, Suzanne Watkins of Jonesboro, AR, and Dillon (Anna) Watkins of Austin, TX; five grandchildren, Evelyn Watkins of Jonesboro, AR, Nolan Ward of New York, NY, Evan Watkins of Georgetown, TX, Luke Ward and Matthew Ward of Austin, TX.; and her two sisters, Charlene Roberts and Sandra Harris. Her family was her pride and joy, and her love will stay with them always.
A graveside service will be 2:45 pm Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Lorado Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 1 pm to 2 pm at Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home, 1900 West Washington Avenue in Jonesboro before the graveside service.
Donna Sue Watkins will be missed more than words can say. Her kindness, her strength, and her quiet wisdom touched everyone who knew her. Her legacy lives on, in her family and in the community she helped build.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who cared for and visited Donna in her final days.
Pallbearers will include Evan Watkins, Luke Ward, Matthew Ward, Carson Dacus, Lonnie Roberts and Taylor Baker.