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COLUMBUS -- Doris A. Watkins, 79, from Warren, transitioned into the arms of her Heavenly Father, Saturday, April 1, 2023, at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, with her family by her side.
Doris was born April 15, 1943, to the late Rev. Griff Watkins and the late missionary Mattie Clara Patrick Watkins. Doris graduated from Warren G. Harding High School. She obtained her bachelor's degree in education from Youngstown College, and a master's degree in counseling from Youngstown State University.
Doris was born into Watkins Temple Church of God in Christ, pastored by her father, and was given charge of the junior choirs. Her love of gospel music allowed her to inspire and train several great local gospel singers.
Doris began working at Packard Electric in 1969, on the assembly lines, and then as a press operator before retiring in 1991. Doris was also a teacher at The Rayen School in Youngstown, where she taught the girls' gym and health education classes from 1969 until her retirement in 1991.
She was a lover of cats, music and education. She was a member of North-Mar Church of the Christian and Missionary Alliance.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Marion Vaughn and Carolyn Reeves; a brother, Jonathan Watkins; and a niece, Deborah Watkins-Brown.
She is survived by her daughter, Andrea Wells; her granddaughter, Heather (Zachary) Barrett; a great-grandson, Liam Barrett; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, April 15, 2023, at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southwest Chapel, 3393 Broadway Grove City, OH 43123, with services to follow at 10 a.m., officiated by Pastor Scott Smith. Burial will follow in Glen Rest Memorial Estates in Reynoldsburg.
(special notice)