Martha Claire Watkins

Louisville - Martha Neel Watkins passed away peacefully on January 24th, 2025 with family by her side. Her parents started Neels Produce in 1952. Martha and her brothers worked in the family business until their death or until the closing of the business in 2013. The business was in operation for sixty one years. She was preceded in death by her husband James Watkins, parents Alonzo and Elizabeth "mama" Neel, her brothers Billy and Bobby Neel, daughter Debbie Lail and son Richard Neel Bagwell. She will be greatly missed by her daughters Karen Gibson (Tim), Melanie Monday (Tommy) and daughter in law Judy Bagwell as well as a dozen grandchildren and several great grandchildren. A special thank you to the handful of nurses that have went above and beyond for our mom, she loved each of you. Family will receive friends from 5:30 until 7:00 PM, Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at Smith West Chapel. Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.