Jonnie Lynne (McClure) Watkins

Jonnie Lynne McClure Watkins, age unstated because we know better than to tell that, passed away suddenly December 15th, 2025, at her home in Florence, AL. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, the late Rufus Alvin “Mack” McClure and Belva Davis McClure; and brother, Bob McClure (Clara).

Jonnie is survived by her husband, Carl Douglas “Doug” Watkins, Sr; daughters, Lora Zahnd (Sam), Ocala, FL and Donna Fowler (Brian), Florence, AL; son, Carl Douglas “Jay” Watkins, Jr, Atlanta, GA; granddaughters, Bailey Fowler and Darby Fowler; sisters of the heart, Ann Ligon and Margaret Pigg; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and a church family who will miss her dearly. 

Jonnie was born July 28, 1943, and was a 1961 graduate of Mars Hill Bible School.  She was deeply devoted to Doug, the love of her life, to whom she was married for 65 wonderful years.  She took great pride in keeping her home and yard, and raising three great children who graduated from Mars Hill, achieved Master’s Degrees, and enjoyed spoiling her in any manner possible. One of her favorite roles in life was as Gran to her granddaughters, with whom she hid innumerable easter eggs, traveled extensively, played a thousand games of Clue and dominoes (without ever “letting” them win).

Jonnie was a life-long member of Jacksonburg Church of Christ, where she taught 4 & 5 year olds for 30 plus years. She hosted many baby and wedding showers, and enjoyed cooking for any and all in need.  Jonnie loved reading and traveling, which she passed on to both her children and grandchildren.  She was known far and wide for her potluck contributions and the way she always had just the right jewelry for the occasion.  Most importantly, Jonnie will be remembered as the wife, mother, Gran and friend you would always want in your corner, because, as she would remind you, dynamite comes in small packages.

A visitation will be held Friday, December 19, 2025, from 12-2 p.m. at Jacksonburg Church of Christ.  The funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the church. Brother Austin Swinea will be officiating.  Burial will follow at the Jacksonburg Church of Christ cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Brian Fowler, Sam Zahnd, Bobby McClure, Barry McClure, Jody Cypert, and Tinker Boyd.

Honorary pallbearers will be Joe Frank Fowler, Trey Watkins, and the elders of the Jacksonburg Church of Christ.

For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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