Virgie Anne Watkins

Virgie Anne Watkins entered peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on September 23rd, 2025. Born in Houston, Texas on February 10, 1941, to Alma (Albright) and Ozro Smith, Virgie's life was forever changed by the love and care of Birley Jack, when he and Alma married, she considered him her real “Daddy” her entire life.

A proud 1958 graduate of Lakeside High School, Virgie cherished her classmates, many of whom became lifelong friends. As a young teenager, she met Wayne Watkins and thought he was something special. Their paths crossed later in life through mutual friends, leading to Wayne inviting Virgie for a ride downtown around the Hot Springs fountain. In her own words, "the rest was history," and they married on June 2, 1960, just six months later. Their love story spanned a lifetime, and Virgie's devotion remained unwavering even after Wayne's passing on March 15th, 2020.

Virgie leaves behind a loving family to carry on her legacy: sons Monty (Cheryl) and Kurt (Anna), daughter Amy, grandson Hamp (Amy), niece Alma (Jim), brother Alfred Jack, sister Phillis McNabb, brother Joey Jack (Lori), and many cherished friends and family members.

A dedicated homemaker, Virgie took pride in building their home on Painter Lane, where they settled just days before Monty was born in 1963. She found joy in working in the yard, nurturing her flowers, and embarking on home projects. Virgie always expressed that anything she could dream up, Wayne would help her accomplish.

A founding member of Grace Bible Church since its establishment in 1971, Virgie remained a devoted member until her passing. Her faith in the Lord was unwavering, and she lived her life in service and dedication to Him. Her ministry touched many lives, and her home became a sanctuary and haven for all who entered. Virgie's gift of hospitality made everyone feel at home and loved, and many young people found solace and friendship in her home during difficult times.

In their retirement years, Wayne and Virgie enjoyed traveling, exploring new places, and visiting friends and family across the US.

Special thanks go to Granddaughter Amy Ruth Watkins, Anna Irwin, Merlyn Dollar, and Marites Webb, as well as Gentiva Hospice and John Ghita for their care and support during Virgie's final chapter.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Grace Bible Church or Basic Training Bible Ministries at PO Box 20664, Hot Springs, AR 71903.

Please join the family Sunday, September 28th for visitation at 2PM followed by a celebration of life at 3PM at Grace Bible Church 1831 Amity Road, Hot Springs AR 71913.