Annie Maxine (Blackmon) Watkins passed away on November 27, 2024 in Arcadia, Louisiana.  She was 95 years old.  She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to many.  Her life was devoted to her husband of 59 years, Lyman "Red" Watkins and son, Keith.  That devotion was carried on to her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and others.  Maxine was a member of First Baptist Church in Jonesboro before she moved to Athens, Louisiana.  She enjoyed cooking, and her family says that no other cooking compared to hers. Maxine and Red loved fishing and camping and enjoyed the fellowship they shared with friends in their camper clubs.

Maxine was one-of-a-kind; a true gem.  She showed warmth and kindness, laughter and love, and she celebrated all successes. She had the wisdom of a teacher and was a sincere and true friend.  Along with her love and kindness, Maxine had a sense of humor, spunk and sass.  To say the least, she kept her family and friends entertained.  She was a remarkable woman – simply the best.

Maxine is survived by her son, Keith Watkins & wife Cindy of Athens, Louisiana; granddaughter, Michaela Howell & husband Chad of Mandeville, Louisiana; grandson, Justin Watkins & wife Elizabeth of Minden, Louisiana; 6 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great- grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Red Watkins; parents, William Henry & Blanche (Whitley) Blackmon; grandson, Jeremy Watkins; sisters, Louise Blackmon, Nell Gassman, Marzelle Tolar and Arline Bryant.

Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Southern-Edmonds Funeral Home Chapel in Jonesboro, from 10:00 AM until time for the funeral service at 11:00 AM.  Bro. Eddie Balance will officiate.  Burial will be in Gayla Traina Cemetery in Jonesboro.

Serving the family as pallbearers will be Eddie Gatlin, Andy Brown, Donnie Freeman, Randy Layfield, David Aldy and Carl Atkins.