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Nancy Minnigh Watkins

1953 - 2014

Nancy Watkins Obituary

Nancy M. Watkins

Chesapeake - Nancy Minnigh Watkins, 60, passed away in peace April 27, 2014, with her family by her side.

Nancy was born Sept. 29, 1953 in Richmond, Va., to Morton Llewellyn "Ludy" Minnigh (better known as Boostro the Space Clown from the land of Magico for fans of Richmond public access TV) and Nancy King Minnigh. "Nemi," as she was known to her family, began her career as a teacher by regularly organizing activities for her sister Courtney and her brother Chris, and made her commitment to education official by earning a B.S. in education and a master's in guidance counseling at VCU. She was an active member of Alpha Delta Kappa, and was named Chesapeake Teacher of the Year in 2003.

In 1980, she accepted a counseling job at Great Bridge Jr. High, where she caught the eye of fellow educator Robert "Bob" Watkins. After dating in secret for several months, they surprised their colleagues by showing up for the start of the 1983 school year married, having eloped July 15. Their love story spanned across 30 years, three homes, two adoring children named Laura and Taylor, and countless adventures around the world.

A service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in St. Paul's Episcopalian Church in Norfolk, the Rev. Scott Hennessy presiding. A reception will follow in the church social hall.

In lieu of flowers, remember Nancy by carrying on her love of children and music with a donation to Edmarc Hospice for Children or the music program at St. Paul's, listen to Joni Mitchell, pet a cat, or enjoy an iced tea.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at hdoliver.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Times Leader on Apr. 30, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Nancy Watkins

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George and Adele Gabb

April 24, 2023

Adele and I have fond memories of Nancy. She was one of the most dedicated and sincere people we have ever know. Her years of service to the students of Chesapeake Public Schools, her dedication to her faith, and her love of family, stand as evidence of what a wonderful and loving human being she was. She is missed but by the grace of God we will break bread and share a libation together.

Joni Hazelette

May 3, 2014

Bob and family,
Our heartfelt condolences to you at this sad time in your lives. May you carry the fond memories in your heart forever.
Nancy was such a special person. I will think of her when I pet with my grand kitty and listen to Joni Mitchell (one of my faves). God Bless.
Joni and Charlie Hazelettte

Preston and Jane Basnight

May 2, 2014

Bob, Laura and Taylor,
We were very sorry to hear about Nancy. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this very hard time.

Jennifer & Carroll Hughes

May 1, 2014

Dear Bob, Laura, and Taylor.

We were deeply saddened to learn of Nancy's passing. God's peace be with you all.

Jennifer & Carroll Hughes

George Gabb

April 30, 2014

Heaven gained an an angel and the world lost a great friend, wife, mother, teacher, and mentor! God bless you Nancy Watkins, I am truly blessed to have had you in my life!

Linda Warren

April 29, 2014

Dear Bob and Family,
LaMont and I are so saddened by Nancy's passing. Please accept our deepest sympathy and our love.
LaMont and Linda Warren

Linda Warren

April 29, 2014

Dear Bob, Laura, and Taylor,
I loved your mom and was honored to call her "sister." I will miss her, but I am so grateful for all of the good memories of her.
Love,
Linda Warren

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2:00 p.m.

St. Paul's Episcopalian Church

Norfolk, VA

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