Betty Jo Watkins

Betty Jo Watkins, 84, of Gastonia, passed away June 19, 2017 at her residence.  She was born March 13, 1933, native of Gaston County, the daughter of the late Charles McClure Houck and Josephine Mantooth Houck.

Mrs. Watkins was a devoted Christian who loved the Lord and sharing the Gospel with others.  She was the happiest in the kitchen cooking for her family and was known for her delicious coconut cake.  Her grandchildren adored her and spent many a summer intrigued with her magic.  She will surely be missed by her loving family.

Left to cherish her memories are her sons, Charles Watkins and wife Brenda of Gastonia, Rick E. Watkins and wife, Harriet of Charleston, SC, Mike Watkins of Gastonia; grandchildren, Charles Watkins, Jr. and wife Amy; Sarah Laffler and husband Eric; Taylor Watkins and great-grandchild, Hall Laffler.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Horace Ray Watkins; daughter, Kathy Ann Watkins; sister, Jeanette McCord; brother, John Houck and grandson, Travis Watkins.

A funeral service will be held 2 pm Wednesday, June 21st at Greene Funeral Service – South Chapel – 1503 S. York Rd., Gastonia, officiated by the Rev. Mike Whisnant.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Long Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 3001 York Hwy, Gastonia, NC 28052.

Arrangements are with the South Chapel of Greene Funeral Service and Crematorium, Gastonia.