2024ObituariesJoe Ann Watkins

Joe Ann “Ms. Joe” Watkins, 83, a resident of Denham Springs, passed away Saturday, November 23, 2024, in Greenwell Springs, LA with her family by her side.  She is now reunited with the love of her life of 64 years leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion.  She was a compassionate, devoted, caring wife, mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend.  She was the purest love you will ever know.  Joe Ann is survived by her children and spouses, Penny Ann and Medhat Elkazaz, James Howard Jr., Suzanne and Kendall Gerald; grandchildren, Brandon, Omar, John, Nikki, Crystal, Terry, and Stephanie; 14 great-grandchildren; nephew and wife Pete and Jerry Comer, Julie Comer; mother-in-law Faye Whittmann; her beloved friends; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.  She is preceded in death by her husband James Howard Watkins, Sr., her daughter, Monica Schaefer; granddaughter, Nadia Awad; parents Carl Edward and Grace Olivia McMillan Hawley, sister Adelaide, and daughter-in-law Beverly Watkins.  As per Joe Ann’s request, there will be no services held.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  Please share your condolences at www.sealefuneral.com.

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me,

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room,

Why cry for a soul set free!

Miss me a little – but not for long

And not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love that we once shared,

Miss me, but let me go.

For this journey that we all must take

And each must go alone;

It’s all a part of the Master’s plan

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick at heart

Go to the friends we know,

And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds.

Miss me, but let me go.

(Edgar Albert Guest)

Thank you to all of the special caregivers for the unwavering support and compassion given to our precious momma.  We are forever grateful to each of you.

A mother’s love is the ultimate sacrifice, for she gives everything she has for her children.  Her love for family was never-ending and will be ever-lasting.