Margaret Louise Watkins

Margaret Louise Watkins, 81, affectionally known as “NANNAN” by all those who knew and loved her, of Batesburg, SC, died on Thursday, March 26, 2026. Born on August 28, 1944, in Columbia, SC, she was a daughter of the late Louis and Inez Heath Brown.

Mrs. Watkins enjoyed a prosperous career as a childcare provider at Mt. Horeb UMC for 20 years, and was a loving and devoted homemaker. She adored children and welcomed several foster children into her home throughout the years. Her greatest joy in life was her family, and she especially treasured every moment with her great grandchildren. Mrs. Watkins was an accomplished baker, winning several ribbons at the South Carolina State Fair for her famous fruit cake.

Survivors include her husband of 65 years, William Braxton Watkins; children, Teresa Watkins Simmeck (Mike) of Gilbert, SC, Tina Watkins Brown of Lexington, SC, and William Scott Watkins of Batesburg, SC; grandchildren, Rachel Brown Jackson (James) of Leesville, SC and William Lawrence Simeck of Gilbert, SC; great grandchildren, William Micah Jackson and Caleb Taylor Jackson of Leesville, SC. She also leaves behind a beloved niece, Alexis, and a special aunt, Allene. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Jimmy Allen Brown and her sister, Carolyn Brown Narr.

The funeral service for Mrs. Watkins will be held at 6 o’clock, Friday, April 3rd, at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC. The family will receive friends at the funeral home prior to the service beginning at 5 o'clock.

Memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.