Linda Watkins

d. June 10, 2026

Bolivar, Tennessee

Linda Gail Lax Watkins, born August 20, 1948, went home to be with her Lord and Savior surrounded by the love of her family on June 10, 2026.

Linda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She married the love of her life, Thomas Wayne Watkins, on May 21, 1966, and together they shared a lifetime of love, faith, and devotion. Linda worked for many years at Dover Elevator, where she retired. Following her retirement, she pursued her passion for caring for others by becoming a nurse and later retired from Western Mental Health Institute. Throughout her life, she demonstrated compassion, dedication, and a servant’s heart.

A faithful Christian, Linda loved God with all her heart. Her faith guided her daily life and was evident in the kindness she showed to everyone she met. She loved singing, spending time with family, and creating cherished memories with those she loved most.

She is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Watkins; daughter, Tracey Howell and husband Stan Howell; sister, Sandra Modory; grandchildren, Blake Smithson (Brittany), Johnathon Smithson, Joshua Howell (Ali), Collin Howell (Marianne), Sydney McCommon (Logan), and Alyssa Carter (Jaden), Perry Cross, Nicole Hodge (Johnathon); great-grandchildren, Livi Chase Howell, Weston and Wren Howell, Sawyer McCommon, Sterling Carter, and Sophie Jo Carter, Neyland, masie, and Blakley Hodge ; dear cousin, Pat Sealand, who was like a sister to her; son-in-law, Larry Dee Cross; sister-in-law, Betty Lax; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Brenda Diane Cross; her mother, Elizabeth Lax; her father, Joseph Lax; her sister, Anita Payne; and her brothers, Wayne Lax and Duane Lax.

Linda’s family was the joy of her life, and her legacy of faith, love, strength, and compassion will continue to live on through all who knew and loved her. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing that she is rejoicing in the presence of her Savior.

Pallbearers will be Joshua Howell, Collin Howell, Blake Smithson, Johnathon Smithson, Justin Howell, Richie Howell, Jared Watkins, Jacob Watkins, Jeremy Watkins, Billy Watkins, and Brian Watkins.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Linda’s family will forever cherish the memories, love, and faith she shared throughout her remarkable life. Her song may have ended on earth, but it continues in Heaven. ❤️

Arrangements will be posted after 4 pm Thursday.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

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Linda Watkins

d. June 10, 2026

Bolivar, Tennessee

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