Lois Watkins

Funeral services for Lois Ethel Watkins will be held Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. from McClain-Hays Chapel with Bro. Micky Myers and Bro. BT Strum officiating. Burial will follow in Dixon Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. until service time at McClain-Hays Funeral Home.

Lois Ethel Cannon Watkins, age 107, a beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted member of her community, passed away peacefully at her home in Dixon, Mississippi on April 7, 2025. The legacy she leaves behind is timeless. Lois was a faithful member of New Bethal Primitive Baptist Church in Leake County, MS, where her unwavering faith and gentle spirit touched many lives. She was known for her quiet strength, deep love for her family, and the simple joys that enriched her long and meaningful life.

Lois especially loved spending time in her yard, tending to her garden, and found great joy in quilting—sharing her warmth and creativity with those around her through every carefully stitched piece.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Thomas Edgar (Shorty) Watkins; her sons, T.E. Watkins, JR and Billy Dean Watkins; her parents, Bruno and Louva Cannon; her brother, Bill Cannon; her son in law Rev John Edwards; and her grandson, Roy Sharp.

Lois is survived by her daughters, Margie Edwards of Meridian, MS, Patsy (Jerry) McGee of Philadelphia, MS, and Dorothy Jane Sharp of Philadelphia, MS. She also leaves behind a cherished legacy in her grandchildren: Matthew Edwards and Evan Edwards, both of Meridian, MS; Kira McGee of Philadelphia, MS; Gerald McGee of Florida; and Nicole (Bobby) Barksdale of Millport, AL. Her family continues to grow and flourish through her 23 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great- grandchildren, each a testament to her enduring love and influence.

Pallbearers who have the honor of carrying Mrs. Watkins to her final resting place are her grandsons: Cory Edwards, Anthony Sharp, Justice Sharp, Kody Anthony, Jackson Edwards, and Garrett Anthony.

Lois Ethel Cannon Watkins will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her 107 years of life were filled with grace, resilience, and a steadfast faith. Her love for gardening, quilting, and caring for others leaves a beautiful and lasting legacy.