Janice Coral Watkins

Shelby With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Janice Coral Watkins, who left this world peacefully on February 13, 2026, at the age of 71, in her beloved Cleveland County, North Carolina, where her remarkable journey began.

Born on April 29, 1954, Janice was the cherished daughter of Donnie Potlow (Whitener) and Hasker Potlow. She was a beacon of light to all who knew her, known for her unwavering strength, outspoken nature, and most importantly, her beautiful spirit filled with love for God and her family.

Janice's professional life was dedicated to the textile industry, where she made lasting contributions with her hard work and dedication. However, her true passion lay in the loving embrace of her family. As a devoted and loving mother to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Janice's heart was always open. She delighted in spoiling her grandchildren and relished every moment shared with her big, loving family.

Her melodious voice graced many gatherings, as she loved to sing and bring joy through song. A faithful member of Ellis Chapel Baptist Church, Janice served diligently on the usher board and sang with the Senior Choir, filling the sanctuary with her presence and devotion. Her love for God and her community was evident in everything she did, and she inspired those around her with her faith and service.

Janice is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Donnie Potlow (Whitener) and Hasker Potlow, and her dear sisters, Coralily Potlow and Daisy Littlejohn. She leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth, survived by her children: sons Lee Potlow (wife April) and Ronald Watkins, and daughter Lisa Mercer (husband Christopher Mercer). Her sisters Mary Ann Whitnier and Frances Littlejohn, brothers Luther Whitener (wife Lavett Whitener) and Hasker Potlow (wife Clara Potlow), also mourn her passing. Her cherished grandchildren—Christian, Jordan, Diamond, CJ, Raheem, Trey, Jahiem, Aaliyah, and Davintley—and great-grandchildren—Drayton, Ivy Noelle, Londan, Emmersyn, Grayson, Ivy Rose, and Prince—will carry forward her legacy of love and faith. Her memory will be treasured by a host of family and friends who were privileged to know her.

A gathering to reflect on Janice's inspiring life and cherished legacy will be held at Ellis Chapel Baptist Church on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM, followed by a memorial service at 1:30 PM. Interment will be private.

Janice Coral Watkins will forever be remembered as a woman of purpose and compassion, whose beautiful spirit touched all who had the honor of knowing her. She leaves behind a world made brighter by her presence, and her loving legacy will continue to inspire us all.

Services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center of Shelby www.claybarnette.com